Breast augmentation surgery is designed to improve shape, size, and cleavage of the breast. In almost all cases, the implants (saline or silicone) are placed under the pectoralis muscle. This helps to improve both the feel and appearance of the implants as well as decrease the chances of capsular contracture (a firmness that can occur around the implant). You should continue to obtain your normal mammograms after implant surgery.
Incision size:
The incision is a little more than an inch long. It can be a bit smaller for saline implants because they enter the pocket of the breast empty and get filled once they are inside.
Location of incisions:
Inframammary – under the breast. This is the most common incision. The scar lies within the fold of the breast. This incision is the most direct to the implant pocket. The scar is almost always covered by the overlap of the enhanced breast.
Periareolar – around the bottom of the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple).
This is the second most common incision. The scar is more visible at the beginning, but after it fades can be almost impossible to see. Although the scar is nearer the nipple, the actual surgery does not go through the breast tissue at that point. This helps preserve the ability to breast feed and minimizes the risk to nipple sensation.
Transaxillary – through the armpit.
This is the least common location. The scars can be very visible if they don’t heal perfectly and they can be seen when you are wearing a bathing suit or some workout clothes.
The long distance between the incision and the lower edge of the muscle makes it more difficult to place the implant precisely.
Breast feeding – Generally speaking, breast augmentation surgery will not interfere with breast feeding.