Why Subfascial Breast Augmentation Could Be the Best Choice for You
Breast augmentation is a highly personalized procedure, and when it comes to selecting the right implant placement, the options can seem overwhelming. Each placement technique—whether submuscular, subglandular, or subfascial—offers distinct benefits and challenges. However, in recent years, subfascial placement has gained attention as an option that combines the best of both worlds: natural aesthetics and lasting results.
For many women in Portland seeking breast augmentation, the subfascial approach is becoming an increasingly attractive option. Positioned between the breast tissue and the muscle’s fascia (the thin, protective layer covering the muscle), this technique offers the subtle enhancements of subglandular placement while providing some of the durability and support of submuscular placement. Imagine achieving that natural slope with minimized risks of implant visibility, all while maintaining the breast’s natural movement.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into why subfascial breast augmentation could be the best choice for you. Whether you’re looking for a solution that balances aesthetics with long-term stability or simply seeking an alternative that offers a natural look with fewer potential complications, subfascial placement may be the perfect fit. We’ll compare this method with other popular placement options, explore the aesthetic advantages, and hear from Dr. Gilson as he shares expert insights on why he recommends subfascial placement to many of his patients.
Comparing Subfascial with Submuscular and Subglandular Placements
When considering breast augmentation, one of the most critical decisions is where to place the implants. The position of the implant can significantly impact the final appearance, recovery process, and long-term results. The three primary placement options are subfascial, submuscular, and subglandular, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Understanding the differences between these placements can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic goals and lifestyle.
Subfascial Placement
Between the Muscle and Tissue: Subfascial placement involves positioning the implant beneath the fascia, the thin layer of connective tissue that covers the pectoral muscle, but above the muscle itself. This technique offers a middle ground between the submuscular and subglandular placements. The fascia acts as a supportive layer, providing more coverage for the implant than the subglandular approach while avoiding the complications that can arise from placing the implant directly under the muscle.
Balance of Natural Look and Support: One of the main benefits of subfascial placement is that it provides a natural look with enhanced upper pole fullness, without the risk of implant movement that can occur with submuscular placement during muscle contraction. Additionally, because the implant isn’t placed directly under the muscle, there is less postoperative discomfort, and the recovery period is generally shorter compared to submuscular placement.
Submuscular Placement
Under the Muscle: In submuscular placement, the implant is positioned underneath the pectoral muscle. This technique is often chosen for women with thinner breast tissue, as the muscle provides extra coverage, reducing the risk of implant visibility and rippling. Submuscular placement is also associated with a lower risk of capsular contracture, a condition where scar tissue forms tightly around the implant, causing it to harden.
Longer Recovery and Possible Discomfort: However, because the implant is placed under the muscle, the recovery process can be longer, and there may be more discomfort compared to other placements. Additionally, submuscular placement can cause the implant to move during activities that engage the chest muscles, leading to a less natural appearance when flexing.
Subglandular Placement
Above the Muscle: In subglandular placement, the implant is positioned directly under the breast tissue but above the pectoral muscle. This placement typically results in a quicker recovery and less discomfort, as the muscle is not involved in the procedure. It also allows for easier access during revision surgeries or future adjustments.
Risks of Implant Visibility: However, subglandular placement can lead to a higher risk of implant visibility and rippling, especially in women with thinner breast tissue. This placement may also result in a more artificial appearance, particularly in the upper pole of the breast, where the implant may be more noticeable.
The Aesthetic Advantages of Subfascial Placement
Subfascial breast augmentation offers several key advantages that set it apart from other implant placement techniques. By positioning the implant beneath the fascia (the thin connective tissue covering the pectoral muscle) but above the muscle itself, subfascial placement provides both aesthetic benefits and functional advantages that are particularly appealing for those seeking a natural look and feel without compromising muscle integrity. Below are some of the specific benefits of subfascial placement:
Elimination of Animation Deformity
Avoiding Unnatural Movement: One of the most significant advantages of subfascial placement is the elimination of animation deformity. Animation deformity occurs when implants placed under the muscle (submuscular) shift or distort during muscle contraction. This can lead to an unnatural appearance, especially during physical activities like exercising or lifting. With subfascial placement, because the implant sits above the muscle but still under the fascia, it remains unaffected by muscle movement, preserving a smooth, natural appearance at all times—whether you're at rest or engaged in vigorous activity.
Maintaining Pectoralis Muscle Function
No Cutting of the Muscle: Unlike submuscular placement, subfascial placement does not require cutting or altering the pectoralis muscle. This means the muscle remains intact, preserving its full strength and functionality. This is particularly important for athletes or individuals who engage in regular physical activities that involve the chest muscles, such as weightlifting, swimming, or yoga. By maintaining the muscle's integrity, subfascial placement allows patients to continue their active lifestyles without the risk of compromised muscle function.
Natural Aesthetic Outcome
Balanced Contour and Shape: While subfascial placement does not decrease the visibility of the implant in the same way as submuscular placement, it still offers a natural, aesthetically pleasing outcome. The fascia provides a layer of support that helps maintain a balanced contour, especially in the upper pole of the breast. This results in a natural slope that mimics the look of a naturally perky breast, without the overly rounded appearance that can sometimes occur with subglandular placement.
Quicker Recovery and Less Discomfort
Reduced Recovery Time: Because subfascial placement avoids cutting the pectoral muscle, the recovery time is typically shorter and less painful compared to submuscular placement. Patients experience less post-operative discomfort, allowing them to return to their normal activities more quickly. This is another reason why subfascial placement is particularly appealing to active individuals who want to minimize downtime while still achieving their desired aesthetic results.
Expert Insights: Dr. Gilson Discusses Why He Recommends Subfascial Placement
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation, Dr. Aaron Gilson frequently recommends subfascial implant placement to his patients. This recommendation is based on the balance that subfascial placement offers between aesthetics, functionality, and recovery. Here are some key reasons why Dr. Gilson favors this approach for many of his patients.
Preserving Muscle Function
No Muscle Disruption: Dr. Gilson emphasizes the importance of maintaining pectoralis muscle function, particularly for active individuals. Unlike submuscular placement, which requires cutting or lifting the muscle, subfascial placement allows the muscle to remain intact. This is especially beneficial for athletes or those who engage in regular physical activity, as it ensures that the muscle retains its full strength and functionality. Whether you're lifting weights, practicing yoga, or participating in other sports, subfascial placement minimizes the risk of muscle impairment.
Eliminating Animation Deformity
A More Stable Aesthetic: One of the primary reasons Dr. Gilson recommends subfascial placement is the avoidance of animation deformity. Animation deformity, which can occur when implants are placed under the muscle, results in visible shifting or distortion of the implant during muscle contraction. By placing the implant above the muscle but beneath the fascia, subfascial placement eliminates this issue. This ensures that the implant remains stable and maintains a natural appearance, even during physical activities or movements that engage the chest muscles.
Balanced Aesthetic Outcomes
Achieving a Natural Look: Dr. Gilson also highlights the aesthetic advantages of subfascial placement, particularly for patients seeking a balanced and natural appearance. The subfascial approach allows for a pleasing contour, providing subtle upper pole fullness without the overly rounded or artificial look that can sometimes occur with subglandular placement. The fascia provides a supportive layer that helps create a smooth transition between the implant and the natural breast tissue, contributing to a harmonious result.
Conclusion
Subfascial breast augmentation offers a unique blend of aesthetic and functional benefits that make it an appealing option for many women. By positioning the implant beneath the fascia but above the muscle, this technique preserves the integrity of the pectoralis muscle, which is particularly valuable for athletes and physically active individuals. The elimination of animation deformity ensures that the implant maintains a stable, natural appearance during muscle movement, providing a consistent aesthetic result.
For those seeking a natural look with enhanced upper pole fullness and a quicker recovery, subfascial placement presents an ideal balance between subglandular and submuscular techniques. Dr. Gilson’s expertise in this method allows him to provide personalized recommendations that align with each patient’s lifestyle and aesthetic goals. Whether you are considering breast augmentation for the first time or exploring options for a revision, subfascial placement could be the best choice for achieving your desired outcome.