Where is the incision made during breast augmentation?

Incision technique for breast augmentation

In breast augmentation the breast implant is inserted through a three to five centimeter incision (depending on the size of the implant). The incision can be made in the inframammary fold, in the armpit or around the nipple.

Where the incision is made to insert an implant depends on various factors. For example, the size of the implant. Whether in the inframammary fold, axillary fold or around the nipple, the location of the incision is chosen so that in most cases the scar is barely visible.

In addition to these three incisions, there are other ways of inserting an implant into the breast. For example, via an incision in the navel area. We advise against this, as this surgical technique is more prone to complications.

Incision in the inframammary fold

If the incision is made in the fold under the breast, the fine scar is hardly noticeable. If the patient later wishes to have the implant replaced or removed, the incision can be made again in the same place.

Thanks to the favorable visibility, the plastic surgeon can place the implant in the optimal position. The desired implants are often larger than the patient's own breasts. The incision in the breast crease gives the surgeon optimum control over the skin conditions and the position of a new breast crease. This precise control is not possible with the other two incisions. In addition, nerves and milk ducts are largely spared, so that the sensitivity of the breast and the breastfeeding function are hardly affected.

Scientific studies also show that the risk of infection and the risk of capsular fibrosis are considerably lower with this incision than with other incisions.

Incision in the armpit

An incision in the armpit is possible but is only recommended by us in exceptional cases. Firstly, the scar is not as well hidden as you might think. The incision is not in the depth of the armpit but around the edge of the pectoral muscle. It is therefore much more visible when wearing strapless tops or bikinis than the incision under the breast. The surgeon also has much less control over the exact dimensions of the implant pocket and the position of the new breast fold with this technique. This means that implant displacements occur more frequently. However, the main reason why we advise against this technique is the scientifically proven, significantly increased risk of infection and capsular fibrosis.

Incision at the edge of the areola

With this technique, a semi-circular or circular incision is made around the areola. If the wound heals well, the scars are almost invisible. We recommend this method in particular if a small implant is to be inserted and the nipple is to be reduced or repositioned.

Unfortunately, it cannot be ruled out that the incision will reduce the sensitivity of the nipples. Some studies have also found that the risk of capsular contracture is somewhat greater than with other methods.

Frequently asked questions answered by Dr Nicholas Waughlock

A breast surgery at Breast Atelier: Quality surgery at a transparent fixed price

The Breast Atelier's team of doctors consists of specialists with several years of professional experience who work under the medical supervision of Dr. med. Cédric A. George, the founder of the Pyramid Clinic (today Plastic Surgery Pyramid), which is renowned far beyond the country's borders. His center for plastic surgery, which is now one of the market leaders in Switzerland, has set the standards in terms of quality and reliability in plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.

Under the patronage of the Plastic Surgery Pyramid, these standards are also accessible to a wider audience in the Breast Atelier. Our specialists in plastic surgery are the guarantors of quality surgery.

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