Under muscle Breast Augmentation for tight pectorals?

I'd like to enhance my breasts and am looking at the options.  I am a fitness competitor and trainer and I worry about the effects of under the muscle implant placement. I have a tendency toward very tight pectorals which has resulted in some issues with my training. I am a full B cup (small C depending on the bra). I would like to go up, maybe a little more than one cup, but less than two. My sister recently got implants and her doctor does not even offer over the muscle procedure. Is this a standard in Breast Augmentation now? It seems like everything I read leans toward under the muscle. Would "unders" be an option for me with my training concerns and chronically tight pectorals?

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14 answers to “Under muscle Breast Augmentation for...”

A: Implants in trainers

Steven Wallach, MD

Tight or not the implants can go under the pectoralis msucles.  These are usually cut to accomodate the implants along the inferomedial aspect.  But, they might move funny especially in a weight trainer. You may want to consider above the msucle if you have enought soft tissue to cover them.

A: There are trade-offs in implant techniques

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

In general, body builders and fitness trainers opt for implants over the muscle (subgalndular). When you contract the muscle a lot, it distorts the implants. Placing the implants under the muscle also requires cutting and dissecting muscle that may alter your normal anatomy when you pose. If you have a... more

A: Submuscular implants are usually better

Richard P. Rand, MD

The placement of an implant partially submuscular (under the pec major) has the benefit of better mammograms than above the muscle, less edginess of the implant, less implant palpability, less capsular contracture, and a more natural long term look. Depending on how your surgeon handles the muscle, there can... more

A: Submuscular implants have many benefits, some tradeoffs

Peter E. Johnson, MD

Jennifer, Submuscular augmentation was started years ago for two main reasons. Intuitively the implant belongs under the gland of the breast and in the best of worlds the implant and breast tissue flow together and feel as one, soft and natural. The problems encountered are capsular contracture, and visibilty... more

A: You can have the implants above the muscle

David Shafer, MD

RedGirl122, It is okay to have your implants above the muscle. If they are put under the muscle, the muscle needs to be cut in order to accommodate the implant. However, if you are an athlete, then you may prefer to the have the implant placed above the muscle. Just find a plastic surgeon who is comfortable... more

A: Both implant placement are options

Robert M. Jensen, MD

The reason most Plastic Surgeons recommend sub-pectoral (beneath the muscle) placement of the implants is: 1 - Long term, there is less incidence of capsular contracture 2 - Better for mammograms 3- More natural slope to the upper pole of the breast, especially long term 4- Less chance of feeling the implant... more

A: Implants may get displaced upward when flexing pectorals

Scott E. Kasden, MD

First, there is no standard way to do breast augmentation. Under the muscle vs. over the muscle have pros and cons. I prefer under the muscle due to lower capsular contracture rate, the extra padding, and the stronger support (minimizes sagging) of under the muscle vs. over the muscle placement.  On the... more

A: Consider above the muscle implant placement

Michael A. Marschall, MD

Hi! I would share your concerns regarding submuscular implant placement. Typically, it is not a problem, however with pectoral contraction there is indeed a chance for banding and potential unattractive characteristics. If otherwise possible, above the muscle could be the best choice. Various implant options... more

A: Consider subfascial implant placement

Richard Baxter, MD

Your situation is actually common but one that requires special consideration. Traditionally, under the muscle is recommended for better coverage of the implant and more natural contours. However, athletes such as yourself are usually advised to have them over the muscle, because of the tightness of the muscle... more

A: Above muscle implant placement probably best for you

Armando Soto, MD

Hi there, Because of your very active lifestyle, I would agree with my colleagues that you are probably best served by implant placement on top of your pectoralis.

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