There are three incisions commonly used for breast augmentation. The inframammary incision is located in the crease below the breast. The periareolar incision is located around the lower part of the nipple-areola complex. The axillary incision is located in the armpit, and has some benefits but one of the disadvantages is that the same incision cannot be used for revision surgery, or so we have always thought. Now a recent study by breast surgeons shows that the axillary incision can be used for revision surgery, if certain principles are followed. The plastic surgeons specifically requested patients who had previous transaxillary breast augmentation but now needed revision. Fifteen patients with 26 breasts requiring revision breast augmentation were located. The average time between the first procedure and reoperation was 12 months, and the average age of patients was 36 years. The size of breast implants used ranged from 195 cc to 360 cc, averaging around 280 cc. The reasons for revision breast augmentation surgery were:
- Capsular contracture
- Size change
- Seroma or hematoma
- Infection
- Axillary banding or scarring
- Lower pole deformity (“double bubble”) or high riding
- Asymmetry
- Rippling
The breast surgeons found that when surgery was performed properly, revision surgery via the axillary incision was possible, and that the revision restriction should limit a woman or her breast surgeon in their selection of breast augmentation incision. If you want to discuss your breast augmentation options in Philadelphia, please contact Dr. David A. Bottger today for a consultation.