Transaxillary Breast Augmentation Incision Explained
Women who are unhappy with the size of their breasts or have experienced a loss of breast volume after weight loss or pregnancy often turn to breast augmentation to achieve their desired look. Breast augmentation can help those who wish to enhance the appearance of their breasts by creating a fuller, more voluptuous bust line. There are many things to consider beyond implant size or type. One of these important factors is incision type. Dr. Suzanne Yee explains the different types of incisions, including the transaxillary breast augmentation incision during patient consultations. Contact our Little Rock, AR practice to schedule your personal consultation.
How Is the Transaxillary Incision Technique Performed?
The transaxillary incision technique allows for the breast to remain scar-free after breast augmentation surgery. This is achieved by placing small incisions within the axilla, or underarm. Although transaxillary incisions prevent scarring on the breasts, the tradeoff is scarring within the underarm. However, incisions are generally about one inch long and made within the natural creases of the underarm, helping to minimize the appearance of scarring.
Breast augmentation using a transaxillary incision is performed by making a small pathway from the incision in the axilla to the breast. A small pocket is then made within the breast to allow for placement of the implant. This pocket can be made behind the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle, depending on the desired results. After the path and pocket are prepared, the breast implant can be inserted through the transaxillary incision and positioned within the breast. Once the implants are positioned, the incision will be sutured closed to complete the procedure.
What to Expect during Recovery
After breast augmentation using the transaxillary approach, patients will require some time to recover. During the first few days of recovery, patients can expect to experience some swelling, pain, and discomfort as the tissues and muscles adjust to the breast implants. Pain and swelling should lessen within a week, allowing many patients to return to their normal routine after a few days of recovery. Although most are well enough to resume their daily routine shortly after surgery, patients should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, or raising their arms above their head until receiving doctor approval to do so.
Why Choose the Transaxillary Incision Technique?
Many women choose the transaxillary incision technique when undergoing breast augmentation. Breast augmentation performed with a transaxillary incision allows breast implants to be placed without making any incisions on the breast, leaving the breasts free of visible scars. The transaxillary approach also allows breast implants to be placed below or above the chest muscle, allowing breast augmentation to be tailored to the needs of the patient. Another reason many women choose the transaxillary incision is that this approach is less likely to interfere with future.
Why Consider Other Incision Techniques?
The transaxillary approach has some disadvantages, which may make other incision techniques more appealing to some. Specifically, transaxillary incisions cannot be reused if implant replacement or revision is needed. A second incision will need to be made, resulting in a second scar. Additionally, breast augmentation performed with a transaxillary incision carries a minor risk of nerve damage to the hands or arms. If nerve damage does occur, it is usually temporary.
Is the Transaxillary Incision Technique Right for You?
For more information about breast augmentation and to find out which incision type is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Yee.
