Under the breast, around the nipple, in the armpit.
Breast augmentation is one of the top choices of cosmetic surgeries worldwide. It allows females to enhance the volume and contour of their breasts. However, the procedure still causes scarring to the same extent as other surgeries. It is vital for implant newcomers to understand where the scars are most likely formed and how surgeons make them less visible. Minimizing the visibility of scars is a priority for surgeons who use the advanced technique of placing them in less viewable areas and which can be easily concealed by the body’s natural curves.
Healing from the scar is a turning point in the whole process and a day when patients can be very satisfied with their breast augmentation. Being informed of the scar’s location and care greatly contributes to a smooth recovery and the gradual disappearance of the scars. Surgeons adjust their incision styles on patients, taking background, implant, and desired result factors into consideration.
Knowing the Location of Breast Implant Scars
With each of the potential scar choices bears certain benefits and drawbacks, there are a few common breast implant scar locations that are regularly utilized. Based on your body’s design, type of implant, and your preferences, the doctor will select the perfect site for the incision. While the target is to lessen the marks, some will definitely be left behind. There are essentially four major parts of the body where cuts can be done; these include the area under the breast (inframammary), the region around the nipple (periareolar), the armpit (transaxillary), and the navel (transumbilical). Each of these choices is explored in detail further below.
Under the Breast (Inframammary Scar)
One of the most common and comfortably accepted breast implant scar locations is the inframammary one. The cut is made in the natural fold of the breast, hence the sight of the scar is very limited. Thus, this setting gives the surgeon freedom to perform a very accurate cut and controlled implant placement.
The method of the inframammary cut is beneficial in a variety of ways. Apart from the fact that surgeons can have direct access to the breast tissue making it easy for them to insert the implant in a precise way, it also tends to recover fast and strong. In most cases the scar, which is along the natural fold of the breast, remains as invisible as it can get with time and is covered by the breast itself. That is why this procedure is the best for people who are planning to have silicone implants, which require a bigger incision to be done correctly.
Moreover, the inframammary scar is less likely to be affected by the healing process and thus can retain a more natural look. This decision is perfect for people who want to get their work done with minimal scarring and it can also be used for different types of breasts and implants.
Around the Nipple (Periareolar Scar)
The periareolar scar is surgically made at the edge of the areola, the darker ring of skin surrounding the nipple. Basically, this type of scarring has the benefit of a hidden scar, merging with the natural color of the areola. Even though this scar is very small and probably will not be noticed after it is healed, there are also some aspects which should be taken into consideration.
The periareolar scar is ideal for the ladies who have larger areolas since a small one may make it difficult to find the right spot for the incision without resulting in a highly visible scar. In addition to that, although the scar generally becomes lighter gradually, there is a possibility that it may become more remarkable during the early stage of the healing process.
Patients who undergo this kind of operation usually have the expectation of a natural result and are using smaller implants as this method allows a minimum incision. But to be aware of the possibility of sensation changes in the nipple, it is better to have a discussion with the doctor beforehand.
In the Armpit (Transaxillary Scar)
The transaxillary scar located at the armpit is another breast augmentation option. This scar is especially attractive to those patients who do not want to have any scars visible on their breasts. The surgeon makes an incision in the armpit fold and through it, the implant is positioned.
What makes the transaxillary method worth doing is that there are no visible breast scars, thus the breast can save its original look. Nevertheless, the surgeon performing this kind of operation has to be extremely accurate and skillful as the implant has to be inserted in a small space which is newly fashioned in the armpit.
The downside of a no-visible-breast-scar trade-off is the fact that sometimes the armpit scar can be seen when the arms are up if the patient has tight skin or well-defined underarms. Apart from that, this method is more complex than other incisions and may require extra surgical steps. Though numerous patients like the hidden scar, discussing its advantages and disadvantages with an experienced surgeon before deciding is indispensable.
Through the Belly Button (Transumbilical Scar)
The transumbilical (TUBA) method locates the scar in the belly button and thus does not leave any visible scars on the breast or chest, which is the unique advantage. This procedure is rarely done and usually, only saline implants, which can be filled after being put in, are used.
The main reason why somebody could resort to the transumbilical approach is the complete absence of the scars that are usually found in the breast area, thus, it is perfectly suited for patients who are extremely concerned with the issue of scar formation. Nevertheless, it would be impossible for a silicone implant to be used here since such a product needs to be filled prior to insertion making the whole operation complicated.
Moreover, the recuperation period for transumbilical operation may be longer than usual and some patients might be exposed to a higher risk of problems such as asymmetry or implant displacement. Based on the patient’s anatomy and preferences, the surgeons will determine if this method is suitable for them.
How Surgeons Decide on the Best Location for a Scar
In deciding on the best site for incision of breast implants, surgeons consider a number of factors. The patient’s body type, the size and kind of implants and any previous breast surgeries or medical conditions are all taken into account. Moreover, the surgeon will consider what the patient wants as some patients may want less scar while others more straightforward surgical approach.
The surgeon’s skill in different areas is another factor that affects the final decision besides the patient’s appearance. The best site for the incision to get the desired results with the least scarring will be recommended by an experienced surgeon. The various options will be discussed by the doctor during the consultation and the surgical plan will be tailored to individual needs.
Role of Implant in Determining Scar Location
Implant type is a major factor that affects the choice of the incision location. In most cases, silicone implants are pre-filled, hence, a bigger cut is required, thereby, most probably an inframammary or periareolar approach will be taken. However, saline implants are placed in the breast empty and then filled after that which allows for smaller incisions that are compatible with transumbilical and transaxillary placements.
Additionally, the deciding factor for where an incision is to be made has a great deal to do with the implant’s volume. Big implants may need more room to be put inside and thus could make it necessary to have a bigger incision, for example under the breast.
Ways to Minimize Breast Augmentation Scar Visibility
As a consequence of breast augmentation, scarring is inevitable, though there exist few measures to lessen the scars’ presence. Possible advanced methods to close wounds like the use of dissolvable stitches or tissue glue, lessening of the scar because the thus united parts are held firmly and healing is done quickly, are supported by the work of surgeons who also employ scar revision ways such as laser treatments or silicone gel sheets to get the scarring less and less over the period of time.
Patients may also take steps in order to facilitate the scarring process and even grace their scars with lessening if they faithfully carry out the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. They must keep the surgical site clean and well-moisturized, refrain from sun exposure, and wear the compression garments as directed. By following good care, the scars of breast implants will become lighter and their presence will be felt less, thus, the end result will be more harmonious and pleasing to the eye.
Breast Implant in Turkey
In anticipation of a great surgeon, first-class clinics, and reasonable prices, Turkey is becoming the planet where you want to go for a breast augmentation surgery. One of the main reasons that patients choose Turkey as their destination for breast implant surgery is the sophisticated medical environment and the easy access to highly qualified plastic surgeons. Lin Europe Clinic in Istanbul is amazing because of its state-of-the-art facilities and the expert surgeons who specialize in breast augmentation, thus, the patients are guaranteed to receive excellent care and the best possible results.
What is more, at Lin Europe Clinic, patients are offered a tailor-made journey where every single detail of the surgery is figured out to perfectly suit one’s personal needs. The clinic is committed to lead its patients through the right route to the least scarring and this is done not only by selecting the most suitable scar location but also through providing comprehensive aftercare.
References
- Spector, J. (2020). Aesthetic surgery of the breast: Principles and techniques. Springer.
- Nahai, F., & DiBello, L. (2018). Plastic surgery: Aesthetic, reconstructive, and reconstructive procedures. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Hurwitz, D. J., & Shifren, K. (2019). Breast augmentation and implants: Safety, risks, and outcomes. Elsevier.
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2021). Breast implant surgery: Understanding risks and recovery.
- Lin, S., & Zhang, Y. (2021). Minimizing scars after breast augmentation: An updated review of techniques and best practices. Journal of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 45(4), 982-987.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Implant Scar Locations
The most typical breast implant scars can be seen in these areas: under the breast (inframammary), around the nipple (periareolar) and the armpit (transaxillary), as well as through the belly button (transumbilical). The exact position is decided based on the patient’s body type and surgeon’s recommendations.
Surgeons take into account the patient’s body shape, implant size, and aesthetic goals when determining the incision site. The aim is to ensure that the scar is less visible and that it is placed in a location that makes it hard to see.
The inframammary scar, i.e. the one in the natural fold under the breast, is usually the least visible. Generally, it is covered by the breast tissue and over time it becomes less noticeable.
Signs of scarring from breast implants are expected to fully disappear only after quite a few months and a year is roughly the time one can see the final results. The recovery process will be much quicker and scarring less if you take care and follow the post-operative instructions.
Most appropriate scar location depends on your body type, implant size, and personal preferences. Schedule a consultation with a surgeon at the Lin Europe Clinic to find out which option is most suitable for getting the best cosmetic results.
