If you’ve ever reviewed before-and-after pictures related to breast implants, you are likely to come across unfamiliar terms such as “sub-muscular” or “dual plane” placement. In the words of one woman who visited Form and Face, “I don’t speak doctor. Could you explain it again in a language I can understand?”
With the help of practice founder Dr Norris, we’ve created an article dedicated to answering her questions (and yours) about those pesky terms.
Pros & Cons of Sub-Glandular Implant Placement
The insertion site, surgical technique and positioning of a breast implant are determined by several factors including
- The natural shape of the breast
- The implant size
- The amount of breast tissue
In a Sub-Glandular Implant Placement, also known as a sub-mammary placement, the implant is inserted in a pocket over the pectoral muscle and directly behind the breast tissue. The three main advantages to sub-glandular breast implant placement are:
- Pain and recovery are reduced because the surgery does not impact the muscle
- Larger implants may be used if the patient has the right soft tissue characteristics
- More cleavage can be created by placing the implants closer together
On the flipside, with sub-glandular implant placement
- The rates of capsular contracture are higher
- Breasts are more susceptible to visible rippling
- The risk of the implants “bottoming out” increases
Pros & Cons of Sub-Muscular Implant Placement
In Sub-Muscular Placement, the implant goes into a pocket underneath the pectoral muscle, located between the breast tissue and chest wall. The benefits of this approach include:
- Safer choice for patients who want dual breast implant/breast lift surgery
- The muscle conceals implant characteristics, allowing for a more natural-looking result
- Breast muscle supports the implant, reducing wear and tear on the skin
In the negative column, you’ll find
- A longer recovery time is necessary due to post-operative discomfort
- Breasts initially appear to sit high on the chest. It may take four to six weeks for the breast muscle to relax into its final position
- Implants can appear distorted when a woman flexes her chest muscles
- The size of the implant is dictated by a woman’s body type rather than her goals
Other Implant Positioning Words You Should Know
- Dual plane breast implant placement situates implants partially beneath the pectorals, placing them both under and over the muscle. This surgery is complex, but offers excellent muscular support and fullness.
- Total submuscular implant placement places the implant behind the pecs and the serratus anterior muscle. This effectively covers the entire implant with muscle tissue. This technique is generally reserved for breast reconstruction using implants
- Sub-fascia implant placement puts the implant behind a sheet of connective tissue made of collagen (fascia) of the pec major only, rather than behind the entire muscle. It works well with women who have little tissue to cover their implants.
We Speak Your Language When It Comes to Breasts
Breast implants have changed many women’s lives for the better. Perhaps they can change yours, too. If you have questions about breast enhancement (boob job), including implants, we invite you to call Form and Face on 02 9387 3800 for easy-to-understand answers that don’t need translation.