Understanding Underarm Incision Breast Augmentation
Underarm incision breast augmentation, also known as transaxillary breast augmentation, is a popular surgical option for women looking to enhance the size and shape of their breasts. This procedure offers a unique approach by making incisions in the underarm area, which can result in less visible scarring on the breasts themselves. In New York City, several highly - qualified surgeons and well - equipped hospitals offer this service, leveraging advanced techniques and technology.
How It Differs from Traditional Breast Augmentation
The main difference between underarm incision breast augmentation and traditional methods lies in the location of the incision. Traditional breast augmentation often involves incisions under the breast (inframammary incision), around the areola (periareolar incision). In contrast, underarm incision breast augmentation accesses the breast area through a small cut in the underarm. This can lead to significant advantages in terms of scarring and recovery, which will be discussed in more detail later.
Benefits of Underarm Incision Breast Augmentation
Minimal Scarring on the Breasts
One of the most significant advantages of underarm incision breast augmentation is the lack of scarring on the breast tissue. In traditional methods, scars around the nipple or in the breast fold can be more visible, especially in bathing suits or lingerie. With underarm incisions, once the scars heal, they blend into the natural armpit creases, making them hard to detect. This allows women to feel more confident in their appearance, even when wearing revealing clothing.
Well - Hidden Scars
The scars from underarm incisions are not only on a less - visible part of the body but are also strategically placed. The armpit area is naturally less exposed in daily life compared to the breasts. As a result, even if the scars do not fade completely, they are not as obvious as those on the breasts. According to a study on breast augmentation techniques, patients who opted for underarm incisions reported a higher level of satisfaction regarding scar appearance compared to other incision methods.
Natural Results
Surgeons performing underarm incision breast augmentation can place the implants behind the chest muscle, which often results in a fuller and softer look. This technique gives the breasts a more natural shape and feel. By working through the underarm, surgeons have the precision to create a well - fitted implant pocket, ensuring that the implants are placed correctly and that the breasts appear symmetrical.
Optimal Healing at the Incision Site
The incisions in the underarms are not under the same level of stress or tension as those on the breasts. The underarm area has a different anatomical structure that allows for better blood flow and less mechanical stress during normal movement. This results in faster healing times and a lower risk of infection. Research shows that the infection rate at underarm incision sites is significantly lower compared to breast - based incisions.
Easier Recovery
Underarm incision breast augmentation often utilizes an endoscopic technique. This method involves minimal blood loss and highly accurate dissection. With less trauma to the body, patients experience a quicker recovery and less postoperative discomfort. They can typically return to their normal daily activities, such as light work or household chores, within a shorter period compared to other breast augmentation procedures. Most patients are able to resume non - strenuous work within one week after the surgery.
Ideal Candidates for Underarm Incision Breast Augmentation
Young Patients with Small Breasts or Flat Chests
Young women who are naturally born with small breasts or extremely flat chests are excellent candidates for this procedure. When the chest is flat, traditional inframammary fold incisions may not be well - hidden. In contrast, the endoscopic transaxillary (underarm) approach hides the scar extremely well in the natural armpit creases, leaving no visible scar on the breast mound. These patients can achieve the desired breast volume and shape without the worry of obvious scarring.
Women After Childbirth
Ladies who have experienced changes in their breast shape due to breastfeeding and pregnancy, especially those looking for a more natural breast augmentation, are also suitable candidates. Underarm incision breast augmentation can help restore breast fullness and improve the appearance of the breasts after childbirth. It can enhance the upper pole of the breasts, which often loses volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
General Health and Realistic Expectations
In addition to the above physical characteristics, candidates should be in generally good health, have realistic goals for the surgery, and a positive outlook for the results. However, it's important to note that for women who require a breast lift in addition to breast augmentation, the underarm approach might need to be combined with other incisions to achieve the desired outcome.
The Procedure Process in New York City Hospitals
Initial Consultation
The first step in the journey of underarm incision breast augmentation in New York City is to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon. During this consultation, patients will have the opportunity to discuss their goals, concerns, and expectations for the surgery. Surgeons will use 3D simulation software to help patients visualize the potential results and select the best implant size. They will also assess the shape of the breasts, map out the incisions, and discuss potential risks, the recovery process, and what to expect after the surgery.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, patients will receive pre - operative instructions from the surgeon. These instructions may include quitting smoking (if applicable), tapering off certain medications that can increase bleeding risks, arranging for transportation to and from the hospital, and designating a comfortable space at home for recovery. Patients may also need to undergo some medical tests, such as breast imaging (mammogram, sonogram, or MRI) and blood work, to ensure they are in good health for the procedure.
The Surgery Itself
On the day of the surgery, patients will arrive at the hospital and fill out necessary paperwork. They will then be taken into the surgical room. The first step of the surgery is the administration of anesthesia, either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, to numb the area and prevent pain. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon will make the incision along the armpit, following the natural skin fold to ensure the scar will be well - hidden. An endoscope, a narrow fiber - optic camera, will be inserted through the incision site to guide the surgeon during the procedure. The surgeon will create an implant pocket, typically behind the chest muscle, and then insert the implant through the underarm incision. After the implant is placed, the surgeon will evaluate the size, symmetry, and shape of the breasts and ensure the implant is positioned properly. Finally, the incisions will be closed with sutures, taking care to minimize scarring. The entire surgery usually takes about one to two hours.
Recovery Phase
After the surgery, patients will recover from the anesthesia in a dedicated recovery area. The surgical team will provide information about the post - surgery care and recovery process. Most women can go home a few hours after the surgery. During the recovery period, patients are advised to rest for a few days to allow the tissues to heal properly. They should avoid exercise and heavy lifting for four to six weeks, but can usually return to work and household tasks after one week. Shaving the armpits should be avoided during the initial healing period. Surgeons will also schedule follow - up appointments to monitor the healing progress and ensure the results are satisfactory.
Selecting a Hospital in New York City for Underarm Incision Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Expertise
When choosing a hospital in New York City for underarm incision breast augmentation, the expertise of the surgeon is of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in performing this specific procedure. In New York City, there are many surgeons with a wealth of knowledge and skills. For example, Dr. William Lao, a renowned double - board - certified plastic surgeon, has a comprehensive understanding of the aesthetic ideals of both East and West and over a decade of education and training in plastic surgery. He has dedicated himself to providing personalized care and natural - looking results for his patients.
Hospital Facilities
The facilities of the hospital also play a crucial role. High - quality hospitals in New York City are equipped with state - of - the - art surgical equipment and technology, such as advanced endoscopic systems, which are essential for performing underarm incision breast augmentation with precision. Additionally, hospitals should have a well - trained nursing staff and a comfortable recovery environment to ensure the safety and comfort of patients.
Patient Reviews and Reputation
Reading patient reviews and considering the hospital's reputation can provide valuable insights. Positive reviews from past patients can indicate the quality of care, the skill of the surgeons, and the overall patient experience. Reputable hospitals in New York City are known for their high standards of patient care, ethical practices, and successful surgical outcomes.
Cost Considerations
The cost of underarm incision breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the surgery, the time needed to complete the procedure, the type and size of the implants, and the surgeon's experience. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's case in detail, create a personalized surgical plan, and provide a price based on the specific package. Many hospitals in New York City offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable and accessible for patients.
Potential Risks and How Hospitals Mitigate Them
Common Risks
Like any surgical procedure, underarm incision breast augmentation carries some risks. These may include dissatisfaction with the final breast shape, bleeding, headaches, reaction to anesthesia, nerve damage, capsular contracture, and infection. However, in New York City hospitals, surgeons take extensive precautions to minimize these risks.
Preventive Measures
Surgeons carefully screen patients before the surgery to ensure they are good candidates. They will review the patient's medical history, including any allergies or previous health conditions. During the surgery, strict sterile techniques are used to prevent infection. To reduce the risk of capsular contracture, surgeons take extra care to minimize bleeding and use techniques to avoid contaminating the implant. For example, they may use a Keller funnel to insert the implant without touching it directly, reducing the risk of introducing bacteria. After the surgery, patients are given detailed post - operative instructions to follow, and follow - up appointments are scheduled to monitor for any potential complications.
Comparing Underarm Incision with Other Breast Augmentation Incision Methods
| Incision Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Underarm Incision | Minimal breast scarring, well - hidden scars, natural results, optimal healing, easier recovery | Scar can be noticeable when raising the arm, more likely to result in bad positioning without endoscopic visualization, difficult to control bleeding from remote access, hard to place silicone implants |
| Inframammary Incision | Good access to visualize the pocket and treat bleeding points, high precision and better results with low complication risks, can place either saline or silicone implants | Scar can be more noticeable due to stretching, may require tattooing to camouflage, slightly higher tendency for “double bubble” deformity |
| Periareolar Incision | Final scar usually blends well with areola color change, good visualization of the pocket, can treat many breast deformities | Scar may be noticeable and require scar care, small areola may not allow for implant placement, different implant placement ease for saline and silicone implants |
| Transabdominal Breast Augmentation | No incisions on or near the breast, good visualization of the pocket and bleeding points, can place both saline and silicone implants | Only suitable for women without significant breast ptosis and desiring a full tummy tuck |
| Transumbilical Breast Augmentation | No incisions on or near the breast | Difficult to visualize the implant pocket, need additional incisions to treat bleeding, can only place saline implants |
Conclusion
Underarm incision breast augmentation offers numerous advantages, including minimal breast scarring, natural results, and easier recovery. In New York City, patients can benefit from the expertise of highly qualified surgeons and the advanced facilities of top - notch hospitals. When considering this procedure, it is important to choose a reputable hospital and an experienced surgeon, understand the potential risks and benefits, and have realistic expectations.
If you are interested in learning more about underarm incision breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon. Take the first step towards achieving your desired breast appearance and boosting your confidence today!
