Incision Type
There are several types of incisions Dr. Hurwitz can use to discreetly place your implants:
- Periareolar: along the areolar edge
- Inframammary: along the fold under the breast
- Transaxillary: in the armpit
The optimal incision type for you will depend on the type of implant you receive, the level of enlargement, and your particular anatomy. Having spent over 40 years performing cosmetic surgery, Dr. Hurwitz has the skills and training to ensure your incisions are as minimal and discreet as possible.
What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation?
Commonly, breast augmentation is performed with incisions along the crease underneath the breasts, or around the areola surrounding the nipple. In transaxillary breast augmentation, implants are placed without incising the breast tissue at all. The transaxillary incision is made along a natural crease in your underarm area. About an inch and a half in length, this incision is almost undetectable once it is healed.*
Transaxillary breast augmentation is more complex than other insertion techniques and requires specialized training. For the most natural looking result, it is important to seek out a qualified surgeon with significant experience in this area. With Dr. Hurwitz's expertise, you can receive safe, proven care for the figure you have always wanted.
Advantages of Specialized Procedures
Benefits of transaxillary augmentation include:
- Natural-looking breasts without tell-tale signs of surgery
- No scars on breast or nipple tissue
- Evidence of surgery limited to inconspicuous armpit area
- Reduced chance of sensation impairment in the nipples
- Less impact on nerves and tissue that affect breastfeeding
- Both saline and silicone implants can be placed
This procedure is also typically safer than other scarless procedures. Many patients have undergone a transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) that uses incisions in the belly button and only allows the placement of saline implants. However, because of recurring issues that can endanger patient safety and satisfaction, the Hurwitz Center for Plastic Surgery does not perform this method.*
Surgical Procedure
Transaxillary breast augmentation is usually performed in our outpatient surgical center. We can use only local anesthesia and light sedation or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Guided by his endoscope, Dr. Hurwitz creates a pocket in the breast tissue and gently inserts the implants to achieve your desired size and shape. Implants can be placed either above or beneath the pectoral muscle, so you can achieve the look you want. When your implants are in place, Dr. Hurwitz will close the underarm incision with sutures.*
You may want to have a friend or loved one accompany you home to help you complete everyday tasks for a day or two following your breast surgery. Because of smaller incisions, healing can be more rapid than with other procedures and any discomfort from the implant insertion is generally very manageable. Most patients are able to return to work approximately one to two weeks after their procedure.
The Right Technique for You
Having been in practice for decades, Dr. Hurwitz is highly experienced with all types of breast surgery. He has a widespread reputation for innovative body contouring, with an emphasis on providing patients with natural-looking results. At your initial consultation, you will discuss your goals with Dr. Hurwitz and he will offer his expert opinion on the best method to achieve the look you want.
While many patients are excellent candidates for transaxillary breast augmentation, some patients will require other techniques to achieve their goals. If you are looking to raise sagging tissue as well as augment your bust line, a breast lift may be more appropriate for your needs. In addition, if you are seeking to receive larger silicone breast implants, a traditional augmentation may be required.
After Treatment
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will return home the day of surgery. Our team will provide specific postoperative instructions. Dr. Hurwitz may prescribe medications for pain management and to prevent infection.
The Recovery Process
During the healing process, you should wear your support garment around the clock. Most patients find that acute pain subsides within one to five days. However, you may experience some soreness and swelling for several weeks.
You should plan to relax for the first few days until Dr. Hurwitz determines that it is safe to resume certain activities. It is usually safe to return to a non-strenuous job after about a week. Keep in mind that carefully following post-operative instructions is crucial to ensuring your results.
Seeing Your Results
The breast augmentation procedure results in larger breasts right away. However, it may take a few weeks to see the final effects of treatment. As swelling and bruising subsides, you will be able to visualize your final, refined results.
Dr. Hurwitz may recommend wearing a support garment for several months to help shape your breasts, especially if you had asymmetry or very small breasts before treatment. Incision lines will continue to fade in the months after the procedure.
Breast Augmentation Cost Factors
There are several factors that can affect the cost of your breast augmentation procedure. Some of these include:
- Any associated medical tests
- Hospital or surgical center fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Prescription medications
- Post-surgical compression garments
- Consultation fee