Does Breast Augmentation Leave Scars?

Breast enhancement is performed to increase the shape and size of a woman’s breasts. It involves the surgical placement of FDA-approved saline- or silicone gel implants. The incision for insertion of the implants can be made at different sites and patients are usually allowed to indicate their choice. As with any kind of cosmetic surgery, breast augmentation too can leave scars, but surgical precision can ensure that the scars are inconspicuous.

Breast Augmentation Incision Sites

The size of the incision depends on the type of implant. Saline implants are usually filled after placement and therefore require only small incisions. On the other hand, silicone implants come pre-filled and need a larger incision for placement.

Incision sites for this plastic surgery are also very relevant in a discussion on scarring. There are various choices of incision sites for breast augmentation surgery. The incision can be placed:

• Underneath the breasts (inframammary)
• Around the nipple (periareolar)
• In the armpit (transaxillary)
• Through the belly button (TUBA or trans-umbilical)

The inframammary incision placed in the folds of skin beneath the breasts leaves no scars on the breasts and would be hardly seen if placed properly. A skilled plastic surgeon would be able to gauge the position of the incision so as to prevent it from being conspicuously visible.

In the periareolar technique, the site of incision is the juncture where the dark tissue of the areola merges with the lighter-colored breast tissue. The scar blends in nicely and is hardly visible after the incision heals.

The greatest advantage of the transaxillary and TUBA methods is that they leave no scars on the breasts. However, with both these techniques the surgeon is working away from the breasts. Therefore if you opt for one of these incision methods, make sure your plastic surgeon has sufficient experience in the area. This will ensure proper implant placement and minimal scarring.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery - Skilled Plastic Surgeon for the Best Results

Every woman who goes in for plastic surgery to enhance her breasts needs to make sure she is in good hands. Only a skilled and experienced surgeon can offer advice on the breast augmentation technique that would be right for her and perform the surgery in a way that scarring is minimal. It’s important to choose a plastic surgeon that is board-certified and performs the surgery in an AAAASF-accredited surgical center. Make sure you are informed about all the risks involved and that the surgeon and his staff can offer you all the support you need – from initial consultation to recovery.