Choosing the right breast augmentation incision is one of the most important decisions you and your plastic surgeon will make when planning breast enhancement surgery.
The location of the incision can influence the final appearance of your breasts, the visibility of scars, the recovery process, and even future procedures.
So, which incision is better for breast augmentation? Let’s explore the main options and what to consider when selecting the best approach for your needs.
Understanding the Different Breast Augmentation Incision Sites
When undergoing breast enhancement, there are several types of breast incision available.
Each has specific advantages and limitations, depending on your anatomy, implant type, and cosmetic goals.
1. Inframammary (Under the Breast) Incision
The under breast incision, or inframammary fold incision, is one of the most common techniques used in the UK and globally. It involves a small cut made in the natural crease beneath the breast.
Advantages:
- Provides direct access to the breast pocket, allowing for precise implant placement
- Works well with all implant types and sizes
- Scars are hidden in the natural fold of the breast
- Lower risk of complications like capsular contracture
Considerations:
- May be more visible when lying down if the crease is shallow
- Not always ideal for patients with very small natural breasts
2. Periareolar (Around the Nipple) Incision
This technique places the incision around the lower edge of the areola, blending the scar into the natural border between the darker skin of the areola and surrounding breast.
Advantages:
- Offers excellent control for implant positioning
- Scar may be nearly invisible due to the colour transition
- Ideal for patients also seeking a minor breast lift
Considerations:
- Slightly higher risk of changes in nipple sensation
- May not be recommended if you have small areolas
3. Transaxillary (Armpit) Incision
The armpit incision breast augmentation technique, or transaxillary approach, involves placing the implant through a small cut in the natural crease of the armpit, leaving the breast tissue untouched.
Advantages:
- No scar on the breast itself
- Suitable for saline or smaller silicone implants
- Favoured by patients wanting to avoid visible breast scarring
Considerations:
- Technically more complex and may have a steeper learning curve for surgeons
- Less ideal for patients needing revision surgery later
4. Transumbilical (Belly Button) Incision
Though rare in the UK and not commonly performed by most surgeons, the transumbilical approach involves placing implants through the navel.
Advantages:
- No scar on the breast or armpit
- Concealed entry point
Considerations:
- Only feasible with saline implants
- Limited visibility and control, increasing risk of asymmetry
How Big Is the Incision for Breast Augmentation?
A common question patients ask is, how big is the incision for breast augmentation? The answer depends on the implant type and technique used.
On average:
- Silicone implants require an incision of about 4–5 cm.
- Saline implants, which are filled after insertion, may require smaller incisions of 2.5–3.5 cm. The goal is always to make the incision as discreet and minimal as possible, while still ensuring a safe and accurate placement.
How Long Do Breast Implant Incisions Take to Heal?
How long do breast implant incisions take to heal? While initial healing may occur within 2–3 weeks, full scar maturation can take several months.
Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within a week, but it’s important to avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for 4–6 weeks.
To promote healing:
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions
- Avoid sun exposure on scars to prevent pigmentation
- Use scar-reducing creams or silicone sheets if recommended
Which Incision Is Better for Breast Augmentation?
So, which incision is better for breast augmentation?
The best option is highly individual and should be based on:
- Your body type and natural breast anatomy
- Implant size, type, and shape
- Desired scar location
- Whether this is your first surgery or a revision
- Your lifestyle and personal preferences
At Dr. Turton’s Leeds clinic, every breast augmentation plan is personalised. With decades of experience and a reputation for natural, beautiful results, Dr. Turton will guide you in selecting the most appropriate breast augmentation implant incisions to meet your goals while minimising risks.
When Implant Removal and En Bloc Capsulectomy Is Needed
In some cases, patients may seek surgery not to place implants, but to remove them—especially if they’ve had older silicone implants or are experiencing complications like capsular contracture.
Dr. Turton offers specialised procedures such as removal of old silicone breast implants with en bloc capsulectomy and breast uplift.
This comprehensive approach removes both the implant and the surrounding capsule as a single unit, which may be beneficial in cases of rupture, chronic inflammation, or patient concern.
When appropriate, a breast uplift (mastopexy) can be performed at the same time to restore a natural and youthful contour to the breasts.
Reserve your consultation today!
Choosing the right breast implant incisions plays a key role in the overall success of your breast augmentation.
Whether you prefer the subtlety of an armpit incision, the precision of an under breast incision, or the seamless blend of a periareolar approach, it’s important to have a detailed consultation with an expert surgeon.
By understanding the pros and cons of each option, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and enjoy beautiful, confidence-boosting results.
Book a consultation today with Dr. Turton in Leeds!
