How do dual plane and sub muscular implants affect chest muscle strength long term?

Dual plane is part submuscular (pectorals muscle) an part subglandular. This provides the most natural look and is the approach taken by most plastic surgeons. In my experience there is no long term loss of strength. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Each situation should be tailored to the individual patient, weighing options.

Under muscle shields the upper implant, lessens scar tissue or capsule, makes mammograms easier.

It may not allow for filling out the lower breast thereby limiting correction of ptosis/sagging. Also in some women, when they flex, some abnormalities may be visible.

Over the muscle, gives a more natural look and will improve sagging without a formal lift. Chance of capsule is slightly higher. This is also used in our practice for professional body builders with very strong muscles which can displace the implants.

In my experience, dual plane offers the best of both options. Upper muscle coverage with lower expansion. Most of our patients are athletic and under muscle does not seem to have much of an affect on sports or activities.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to best discuss your options and expectations.

Hello from Istanbul! For both dual plane and submuscular implant placements, we generally do not observe a significant loss in muscle strength in the long term. There might be a minimal difference in professional athletes, but for someone like you, who engages in moderate training, there should be no issues that would cause any problems. That being said, the placement of implants depends on a multitude of factors and is best determined after a detailed in-person examination. Best of luck on your journey!

Dual plane or total submuscular coverage does not affect the strength of your pectoralis muscle. There are studies, however, that do show long term shoulder girdle muscle weakness which would potentially affect someone who was engaged in vigorous strength training or fitness. Breast augmentations that are performed in the dual plane or submuscular position can indeed result in hyperanimation deformities which can be noticeable and potential unsightly. To minimize the likelihood of this, especially in an athletic patient who enjoys doing chest workouts, I would recommend a subfascial breast augmentation. #sigalift

Dear cg5154,
I almost always place implants submuscular. It lowers the rate of capsular contracture significantly. In addition, it looks much more natural because the muscle provides covering over the implant so its not as round on the top. I've also noticed the implants drop less over time when they are protected under the muscle.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

This is a good question and the answer starts with understanding the difference between submusclar and dual plane breast implant placement. Both mean that the breast implant will be placed under the pectorals major muscle. Dual plane refers to a "second plane of dissection" above the muscle but under the breast tissue. When used, it is generally to help with mild degrees of a ptotic (sagging) nipple.
Overall I tell patients that unless they are a very high performance athlete, submuscular breast implant placement will not affect chest strength. The bigger concern if you are very active is that you can have what is called an "animation deformity" which is when you can see distortion of the breast implant when you flex your pec muscle. Depending on your breast anatomy, a consult with a well trained plastic surgery can help determine the best plan for your breast augmentation!

The Dual plane approach is used when trying to prevent the need for some type of breast lift and incorporates, both a submuscular and Partially subglandular Placement of an implant. With that said, I have had many many patients over the years who were extremely athletic, and or bodybuilders of some type, all of which who have had implants under the muscle, and had no problem with exercise or strength. the only caveat is the first 2 to 3 months after breast augmentation you refrain from any type of chest exercises.