Breast Implant Placement Options Explained

Subglandular, subfascial, and submuscular breast implant placements are three common options for where breast implants can be positioned during breast augmentation surgery. Each placement has its own advantages and considerations. Here’s a comparison of these three options:

Submuscular Placement

Location: The breast implants are positioned beneath both the breast tissue and the pectoral muscle.

Advantages:

• Natural appearance: Submuscular placement provides additional tissue coverage, which can result in a more natural-looking breast shape, especially in individuals with minimal natural breast tissue.
• Lower risk of visible rippling: The additional muscle coverage reduces the risk of visible implant rippling or wrinkling.
• Lower risk of capsular contracture: Submuscular placement may have a lower risk of capsular contracture compared to subglandular placement.

Considerations:

• Animation deformity: Some women experience “animation deformity,” where the implants move when the pectoral muscles contract. This is more common with submuscular placement.
• Longer recovery: The surgery can cause more discomfort and recovery may take a bit longer because the chest muscle is being manipulated.

Subfascial Placement

Location: Positions the implant beneath the breast tissue but above the chest wall fascia.

Advantages:

• Less animation deformity: Subfascial placement reduces implant distortion when the pectoral muscle contracts.
• More tissue coverage: More natural tissue is covering the implant than in subglandular placement.
• Easier recovery: Patients may experience a faster and more comfortable recovery compared to submuscular placement.

Considerations:

• Suitability varies: Subfascial placement may be suitable for some individuals but not others, depending on their anatomy and desired outcomes.

Subglandular Placement

Location: Positions the implant between the breast tissue and the pectoral muscle but above the chest wall fascia.

Advantages:

• Reduced animation deformity: There is less risk of implant distortion when the pectoral muscle contracts.
• Faster recovery: Patients typically experience a shorter recovery period than with submuscular implantation.

Considerations:

• May not be suitable for thin individuals: Subglandular placement can sometimes result in visible rippling or implant edges, particularly in women with minimal natural breast tissue.
• Potential for capsular contracture: Some studies have suggested a higher risk of capsular contracture with subglandular placement.

Dr. Chang is a big proponent of subfascial implant placement, but he can assess your individual anatomy, aesthetic goals, and any specific concerns to help determine the best method for your surgery. To talk with Dr. Chang and explore all of your breast implant options, call 410-740-9330 to schedule your consultation today.