For the first time in a while, I had a patient request her implants be placed through her under arm. This is a very nice but less common approach so I thought it was worth a little discussion.

The most common approach for implant placement is an under the breast crease incision, followed by peri-areolar (nipple edge) and then trans-axillary (armpit).

The obvious advantage to this approach is that there is no scar left on the breast. The scar in the armpit typically heals very well and is barely noticable.

The disadvantages are that special endoscopic equipment is needed, which in some facilities can increase cost. It is also a little more difficult to release the muscle so the risk of the implant riding high after surgery is a little higher than if the other access points are used. Finally, if you experience a bleeding problem or need any kind of revision surgery, a second incision will probably need to be made. These situations are rare, but do occur.

So, this is a really nice way to place implants. Kind of slick actually! There are a couple of potential drawbacks you need to consider but if you really don’t want a scar on the breast it is the way to go. Just make sure to have a good discussion with your surgeon and you should be fine.

Lee Corbett, MD
https://www.corbettcosmeticsurgery.com/
502.721.0330

All posts on this blog are presented by Louisville breast implant surgeon, Dr. Lee Corbett.