Breast augmentation
While some women are born with naturally full breasts, others find that their breasts are smaller than they would like. Unfortunately, there are no exercises, supplements, or topical creams that will cause the breasts to grow larger. For women who are unsatisfied with their breast size and would like to increase it, breast augmentation is the only proven method to do so.
If a woman decides that she wants to have this surgical procedure, then she will have several different choices to make. One of these is whether to have the implants placed “over the muscle” or “under the muscle.” What does this mean, and what factors may go into making the decision?
Under the muscle
The muscle referred to is the pectoralis major muscle, which is the large flat muscle of the chest. Although this muscle may look quite thick on the chest of a male bodybuilder, the truth is that it’s actually quite thin in most people, especially in most women. Placing the implant under the muscle adds an extra layer of tissue over top of the implant, helping to disguise its edges and create a more natural look and feel to the augmented breast.
For many women who are seeking breast augmentation, there may be little fat tissue on the chest to help hide the edges of the implant. This is especially true when a woman is thin overall, which is the case with many of our female patients seeking breast augmentation. In this situation, under the muscle placement is often recommended, as the edges of the implant may otherwise be visible. This also helps to reduce the risk of visible rippling, which can sometimes occur when there is very little tissue on top of the implant.
Over the muscle
Another option is to place the implant beneath the milk-producing glands of the breast, but above the chest muscle. This may be a good option for women who have more natural tissue on the chest to help disguise the implant.
Another situation in which women might prefer over the muscle placement is if they are bodybuilders or weightlifters. Placing the implant under the muscle requires separating part of the muscle from its attachment. While most women will not notice any difference in muscle performance as a result, those who are competitive in certain sports might see a small decrease in their weightlifting performance after implants are placed below the muscle. They may choose implant placement above the muscle, accepting a potentially less natural-appearing result in order to preserve the highest possible strength of the muscle.
Should you choose under or over the muscle for your breast augmentation?
Which of these options is best for you really depends on your personal situation and your goals for your appearance. You will have a chance to discuss this choice, along with the other choices you’ll make to personalise your procedure, during your consultation with your plastic surgeon. Only after examining you and learning about your goals can a surgeon make recommendations about implant placement.
Dr. Sjarif has performed many breast augmentation procedures, and would be happy to offer you the benefit of his extensive professional training and experience as you navigate the various choices you’ll need to make as part of your procedure. If you’re considering breast augmentation, you can see him for a consultation. Simply contact our office if you’d like to book an appointment.
