Making the decision to get a breast augmentation is a personal decision that should not be made lightly. While you are considering your reasons for having the procedure, you should also take some time to learn about the different types of incisions.
Periareolar Incision
This type of incision is made by cutting through the breast tissue around the perimeter of the areola (the dark tissue of the nipple). This procedure is most commonly used when there is a combination of cosmetic work being done in the breast area in addition to an augmentation. Although a popular incision method, there is an increased risk of infection and loss of sensation in the nipple area. Many women who opt for this incision option have trouble breastfeeding in the future.
Transaxillary Incision
The incision is made in the folds of the armpit to hide the surgical scars. A small camera is used to create a path and pocket for the implants, which can be placed above or beneath the chest muscle. This incision method leaves very minimal scarring and is very precise.
Transumbilical Incision
This incision is a curved incision that is made inside of the belly button. Once the incision is made, a camera is placed inside so that the surgeon can see while they use small surgical tools to create a path and place for the implants. Implants can be placed over or underneath the chest muscle. The benefits of this incision method are that there is a reduced risk of infection and minimal scarring. However, only saline implants can be used for this incision procedure and implant placement is less precise.
Inframammary Incision
The incision is made just underneath the breast, where the breast meets the rib cage. The advantages of this incision are that it provides the surgeon with easy access to create the pockets to place the implants above or underneath the chest muscle. It also allows your surgeon to make very small incisions to minimize the amount of scarring. It is one of the more commonly used types of breast augmentation incisions and is a great option for women who plan to breastfeed in the future.
Before making a final decision about breast augmentation in Birmingham, contact Dr. Cohn to learn more about which incision option is best for you.