Learn about transaxillary breast augmentation, According to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation remains one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries. This procedure is the most effective way to increase breast size and can provide beautiful results for patients looking to enhance their breast shape.
However, the traditional methods of breast augmentation may come with a downside: scarring.
There is a unique approach that can be a great option for certain patients - the transaxillary breast augmentation technique - which involves making a small incision in the folds of the armpit instead of on the breast itself, significantly reducing visible scarring.
How is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation Performed?
Transaxillary breast augmentation is a state-of-the-art plastic surgery technique for inserting breast implants via a small armpit incision, avoiding any visible scars.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Transaxillary Breast Augmentation:
Step 1
Surgeon and his team will clean the treatment area with a special antiseptic cleaning solution in order to create a sterile environment.
Step 2
A small incision (approximately 1-2 inches) will be placed in the armpit area through which a tunnel is created under the pectoralis major (chest muscle) towards the breast pocket.
Step 3
The breast implant is carefully inserted directly into the pocket under the chest muscle.
Step 4
Surgeon will compare both sides to create the best possible symmetry.
Step 5
The incisions are then closed using sutures to promote healing.
Why Opt For the Armpit Incision For My Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Many patients prefer the armpit incision for a breast augmentation because it avoids scars on the breast and avoids cutting through breast tissue when placing the breast implants underneath the muscle.
Other benefits of this plastic surgery technique include:
- Faster and more natural healing process
- Allows women to continue breast feeding and their normal activities
- There are no bleeding complications
- There is no size limit for the breast implants
- Lower risk of bottoming out (unfavourable downward movement of implant)
- Less visible implant wrinkling/rippling
Am I a Good Candidate For a Transaxillary Breast Augmentation?
The best way to know if the transaxillary breast augmentation technique is right for you is to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Ladak. He will be able to guide you through the breast augmentation process from any preparations you need to make, through to the surgical procedure and aftercare.
Your consultation with Dr. Ladak will include:
- An evaluation of your general health, including any pre-existing health conditions or other potential risk factors
- Discussion of your plastic surgery options
- Consideration of the probable outcomes of breast augmentation surgery as well as any potential risks or complications
- Discussion of the use of anesthesia during your breast augmentation procedure
Transaxillary Breast Augmentation: Recovery & Risks
Before opting for any plastic surgery procedures, it is important to be aware of the recovery and risks. This will help speed up your healing time and ensure the best possible aesthetic results.
Recovery Period
- The recovery period varies from 1-2 weeks. The patient can typically resume normal activities after the first two days
- While recovering, you should eat a healthy diet and avoid smoking
- Avoid heavy lifting or raising your arms as much as you can 7 to 15 days after the operation
- Strenuous activities that put pressure on the breasts should be avoided
- Regular checkups should be done by patients during these two weeks
- For two weeks before and after armpit surgery, do not take any aspirin or other medications containing salicylates
Risks
- There is a moderate risk of infection in the incision if the patient doesn’t follow all directions provided by their surgeon
- There may be a risk that the implant is slightly higher than desired due to the distance between the axillary incision and breast
- There may be risks of loss of sensation in the nipple and areola
As with any plastic surgery procedure, the risks associated with a transaxillary breast augmentation are significantly reduced when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon.
Taking the time to choose your plastic surgeon will allow you to make a more confident decision and ensure you get the aesthetic results you’re looking for.
Contact Us
To receive more information on the costs, benefits and healing times of transaxillary breast augmentation, or to book a consultation, contact Dr. Ladak today at (780) 407-6691 or use our online contact form.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Edmonton, Alberta and specializes in a variety of cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures.
