Achieving the Lift & Look Implant Placement for Natural Breast Augmentation

Achieve a Natural Look With the Right Technique

If you’re considering breast augmentation, you’ve probably encountered information on the wide variety of options. Size, shape, saline, silicone, incision type, and more all play their role in the outcome of a breast augmentation procedure. Breast augmentation is a highly customizable surgery, and when all these parts are done right, the results can be natural-looking and beautiful.

One factor that isn’t always the first thing to be discussed is the implant placement, which can be either subglandular or submuscular. Implant placement can be one of the most significant factors for how natural-looking your breast implants appear. Natural-looking augmentation can be based entirely on the patient’s preference, and there is no right or wrong way. But, if a more natural-looking result is what you are aiming for, proper placement is key.

Let’s examine breast implant placement in more detail, including how it contributes to the final outcome of breast augmentation. We’ll also consider the pros and cons of the two major implant placement options.

Subglandular Breast Implant Placement

This placement puts the implant underneath the breast tissue and glands but above the chest muscle. Subglandular placement allows for relatively larger implants in many patients, and a look with more cleavage can typically be achieved. Because this method is slightly less invasive, the recovery time tends to be slightly shorter, and patients experience less discomfort when implants are placed above the muscle.

Because of the nature of this placement, there are a few disadvantages. Since the implants are closer to the skin, there is the possibility of rippling or irregular texture showing. Placing the implants above the muscle also means they typically have a less natural-looking outcome and can look a little more rounded at the upper pole of the breast. For those seeking a more natural-looking result, subglandular may not be ideal.

Submuscular Breast Implant Placement

The most popular option, submuscular placement, typically places the implant underneath the muscle wall and connective tissue in the chest. Because the implant is under more of the patient’s natural tissue, this option offers a more natural look and feel compared to the option of subglandular placement. If a mastopexy, or breast lift, is also being considered, this method is more conducive to including that procedure.

Another advantage of submuscular breast implant placement is the lower incidence of capsular contracture, a complication in which scar tissue develops around the implant and can become tight and even change the look of the breast, requiring a capsulectomy during a breast implant revision surgery. Mammograms, an essential part of monitoring breast health, also tend to be more accurate and more accessible to perform with the submuscular method.

Of course, this technique does have a few downsides. Since it’s slightly more invasive, recovery is initially a bit more uncomfortable. This method also may not be optimal for women with more developed chest muscles since the implants may move or distort with chest muscle movement or heavy chest exercises. Ultimately, though, submuscular placement is the best choice for most women who are good candidates and desire a natural-looking outcome. 

Making the Natural-Looking Choice

The optimal breast implant result is a completely customizable and personalized aesthetic choice. It’s up to you, the patient, to decide what you want your results to be, and a good surgeon can help you decide the best way to achieve those results.

For many women, the goal of breast augmentation is for their breasts to look as natural as possible. Your surgeon will need to consider several factors when determining which option is best for you. The size or strength of your chest muscles may come into play, along with the amount of existing breast tissue you have. For most women, submuscular placement is a great option and is ideal for a seamless, complementary outcome. Overall, submuscular placement is the most popular placement option. 

While Placement Is Key, Choosing The Right Surgeon Is Essential

The only way to decide exactly which placement is right for you, along with size, shape, and all the other variables, is to consult with an expert like Dr. Reza Sadrian at Sadrian Plastic Surgery in La Jolla, CA. As a double-board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sadrian has the knowledge to help you craft the perfect treatment plan to suit your unique needs and the skill to make it a reality.

With the right placement and implant choices, a natural look can be achieved, but it also requires surgical experience and a blend of technique and artistry from your surgeon. Book a consultation today to learn more about breast implant placement and what breast augmentation can achieve for you.