Is Subglandular Breast Implant Placement Right for Me?

Subglandular placement is acceptable if you have at least 2cm of tissue pinch in the upper pole. That being said, the most important factor that keeps the breast looking natural over hte long term is tissue coverage, and that is greater when it is behind the muscle. But the notion of thinking that there are just two choices - in front and behind the muscle - is obsolete thinking. Today we do "dual-plane" augmentation, in which there is muscle over the implant towards the... more

Subglandular breast augmentation can be a good choice for a woman such as yourself with mild ptosis (sagging) due to childbirth. If you lose additional weight, however, the ptosis may get worse. If that happens, you may need to consider doing a mastopexy, or lift, along with the implants. The disadvantage of the mastopexy is the additional scarring, however with time (a year or two), the scars do fade quite a bit. The advantage of the mastopexy is that you can have the implants placed un... more

Thank you for the question. In general, I think it is in your best interests (and that of most patients seeking breast augmentation surgery) to have implants placed in the “dual plane” sub muscular position. This positioning allows for more complete coverage of the breast implants leading to generally more natural feel/look of the implants in the long-term. This position will also decrease the potential for rippling and/or palpability of the implants (which... more

Hello, The answer here depends upon how much ptosis you have and whether or not you want a lift. I am not crazy about saline-filled implants in the sub-glandular position as they tend to ripple especially with weight loss. Maybe you can split the difference and go for a mini lift with placement of the implants in the sub-muscular position. It is hard to tell without examining you.

I am personally not a believer that above the muscle implants are the best way treat laxity of the breast tissue. With your goal being to lose weight you run the risk of visible rippling and wrinkling especially in the area of the upper and inner breast. You should chose the plastic surgeon to care for you that you are most comfortable with and you agree with the plan. Do not hesitate to ask questions about your concerns as well. Best of luck. Dr Edwards

Hi! Of course, you should get another opinion, but I agree with your surgeon. Even if you are going to lose weight, breast implants should be placed subglandular if you have any sagging. In New York City, we have quite a few women with subglandular saline inplants who look and feel just fine. But in general, we would recommend smooth walled silicone implants.