Breast Implant Placement FAQs

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide. If you’re considering breast implants, you probably have a lot of questions about the placement options and what’s best for you. This blog will address the most common FAQs regarding breast implant placement.  Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

1. What Are the Different Types of Breast Implant Placement?

There are two primary placement options for breast implants:

• Subglandular (Over the Muscle): The implant is placed above the chest muscle and below the breast tissue.
• Submuscular (Under the Muscle): The implant is placed beneath the pectoral muscle.

A variation, known as dual-plane placement, places the upper part of the implant under the muscle and the lower part under the breast tissue.

2. Which Placement Option Looks More Natural?

• Submuscular placement generally provides a more natural look, especially for individuals with less natural breast tissue.
• Subglandular placement may look more natural in individuals with sufficient breast tissue to cover the implant.

3. Which Placement Option Is Best for Active Individuals?

If you’re an athlete or engage in frequent upper-body workouts, subglandular placement may be preferable because it avoids interference with the pectoral muscles. However, many athletes still opt for submuscular placement for a more natural appearance.

4. Is One Placement Option More Painful Than the Other?

• Submuscular placement typically involves more post-surgical discomfort because the chest muscle is manipulated during surgery.
• Subglandular placement may result in less discomfort and a faster recovery.

5. How Does Placement Affect the Risk of Capsular Contracture?

Capsular contracture is a condition where scar tissue forms tightly around the implant. Research suggests that submuscular placement may lower the risk of capsular contracture compared to subglandular placement.

6. Does Placement Affect Mammograms?

Yes. Submuscular implants tend to interfere less with mammograms, making it easier to detect abnormalities compared to subglandular implants. It’s important to inform your radiologist about your implants during a mammogram.

7. Will the Placement Affect Sagging Over Time?

• Subglandular implants may experience more visible sagging over time since they sit closer to the skin.
• Submuscular implants provide additional support, potentially reducing sagging.

8. How Do I Decide Which Placement Is Best for Me?

Choosing the best implant placement depends on several factors, including:

• Your body type and natural breast tissue
• Your lifestyle and physical activity level
• Your desired aesthetic outcome
• Your surgeon’s recommendations based on your anatomy

Conclusion

Deciding on breast implant placement is a crucial step in your breast augmentation journey. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which option best suits your goals and body type. With the right choice, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that enhance your confidence.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.