Breast Implant Placement

Breast implants can be placed in front of or behind the pectoral muscle. Implant placement makes a big difference in the look you will achieve, your recovery time, and the long-term results of your breast enlargement. Many factors will go into your decision including lifestyle and your desired look. Dr. Gawley will help you decide which placement is right for you.

Subglandular placement is in front of the muscle. Submuscular placement is behind the muscle. There are advantages and drawback to both placements.

Subglandular – in Front of the Muscle

Subglandular placement is behind the breast tissue and in front of the muscle. Advantages include:

• Sharply defined cleavage
• More dramatic results
• Easy to place
• Shorter, less painful recovery
• Larger implants can be used
• Preferred option for bodybuilders – implant does not distort when pectoral muscles are flexed

Disadvantages of subglandular placement can include:

• Greater risk of sagging over time
• Implant is more visible
• Any rippling may be visible
• Good mammogram images more difficult to obtain
• Capsular contracture more likely

Submuscular – Behind the Muscle

Submuscular placement is behind the muscle wall. This provides more support for your implants, with a more subtle look. This placement moves your existing breast tissue forward. Advantages of submuscular placement include:

• More support - less likely to sag over time
• More natural looking
• Rippling and implant edges less visible or not visible at all
• Risk of capsular contracture is reduced
• Easier to obtain good mammogram images

Disadvantages of subglandular placement can include:

• More difficult to place
• Longer, more painful recovery
• Limitation on implant size

Choosing Breast Implant Placement

Many factors will determine which placement is best for you. Your body size and type, existing breast tissue, and desired results will all be a part of that equation. During your initial consultation Dr. Gawley will help you decide which placement option will work best for you and meet your personal breast augmentation goals.

If you are considering breast enlargement in the Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona area, please contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn more about implant placement. You can learn more about breast augmentation right now by reading our Frequently Asked Breast Enlargement Questions.