Posted: August 24, 2023
When preparing for breast augmentation regarding implants. The size, shape, surface, and type of implant are all important considerations that affect the ultimate outcome. One additional factor that patients may not anticipate is the desired position of the implant. A plastic surgeon can place the implant either in front of the muscle (subglandular) or behind the muscle (submuscular), with each placement having its own benefits. In this blog, renowned Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, Dr. Jay S. Orringer, discusses differences between these implant positions.
Submuscular
With submuscular placement, Dr. Orringer places the breast implant partially under the pectoralis major muscle. This means the top and much of the inner aspect of the implant are covered by muscle.
This placement might achieve a more natural-looking result because there is a smoother transition between the implant and the chest wall. The extra tissue covering the implant makes it less visible through the skin. A number of studies suggest that implants are also less likely to experience capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant) when the implant is partially under the muscle (subpectoral). In addition, implants placed partially under the muscle interfere less with mammography.
Subglandular
With subglandular placement, Dr. Orringer positions the implant in front of the muscle, but behind the fat and glandular tissue of the breast.
Subglandular placement can often accommodate larger breast implants more easily. Because Dr. Orringer does not have to operate on the chest muscle, the recovery for this surgery tends to be easier. Submuscular placement shows some implant animation deformity associated with use of the pectoral muscle. Therefore, especially in body builders and certain athletes, subglandular placement might be selected.
Which Is Right for You?
Most of the breast augmentation procedures that Dr. Orringer performs use submuscular placement, as the results often appear more natural and the implant may be less visible. However, each patient is unique with her own set of individual concerns and considerations.
To schedule a consultation with double board-certified, internationally known Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, Dr. Jay Orringer, please call (310) 273-1663. Dr. Orringer welcomes patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Newport Beach, Northern California, nationally and internationally.
