Retromammary Breast Augmentation

April 1, 2024

Breast augmentation has been a popular choice for decades. Traditionally, implants were commonly placed under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement).

However, there’s a growing trend in the world of cosmetic surgery that’s gaining attention: retromammary breast augmentation. This method involves placing the implants over the muscle (retromammary subfascial placement), which has been found to be particularly beneficial for a specific group of women.

In this blog, Minnesota Plastic SurgeonJoe Gryskiewicz, MD will discuss the details of retromammary breast augmentation, highlighting its benefits and why it’s becoming a preferred choice for many. We’ll focus on the use of Mentor^® Boost and Extra implants, which are specifically designed for over-the-muscle placement. These implants have shown excellent results in this type of procedure, offering a promising option for women looking for a more suitable alternative to traditional breast augmentation methods. Moreover, women who are active and often engage in upper body exercises may find this option particularly appealing.

Understanding Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing breast size and shape. This is achieved through the placement of silicone or saline implants. Placement of the implants can be above or below the muscle.

Retromammary (Over the Muscle) Implant Placement

This method, known as retromammary or subfascial placement, involves positioning the implant behind the breast tissue but in front of the pectoral muscle.

Since the implant is not beneath the muscle, it remains unaffected by muscle movements. This makes it an excellent choice for women who are physically active, particularly those who engage in upper body workouts. The absence of muscle interference means that the implants are less likely to be displaced over time, maintaining their desired position and appearance.

Procedure Details

During a retromammary breast augmentation, Dr. Joe makes an incision, either under the breast in the natural crease or around the areola. Through this incision, a pocket is created, and the implant is carefully positioned.

Benefits of Retromammary Placement

The retromammary approach to breast augmentation offers several advantages:

• Natural Feel and Appearance: Retromammary placement can provide a more natural feel and appearance, especially in those with natural breast tissue to cover the implant.
• Quick Recovery: Patients often report a quick recovery time, which is a significant advantage for those who cannot afford a long downtime.
• No Muscle Interference: Since the muscle is not involved in the placement, exercises that involve pectoral muscles do not affect the implant. This is crucial for athletes or fitness enthusiasts.
• Stable Implant Position: The implant is less likely to shift or move over time, maintaining its position and appearance even with rigorous physical activity.
• Confidence in Movement: Women can engage in their exercise routines without worrying about the appearance or movement of their implants, leading to increased confidence and comfort.

Benefits Specific to Mentor’s Boost and Xtra Implants

Mentor’s Boost and Xtra implants are particularly well-suited for the retromammary placement due to their design properties:

• Tailored for Over-the-Muscle Placement: These implants are specifically designed to provide optimal results when placed over the muscle. They are engineered to mimic the natural shape and feel of the breast tissue.
• Variety of Sizes and Shapes: Mentor offers a wide range of sizes and shapes, allowing for a customized fit that caters to the individual’s body type and aesthetic goals.
• High-Quality Materials: Made from cohesive silicone gel, these implants are known for their durability and natural feel. They are designed to maintain their shape and integrity over time.

Who is the Ideal Candidate for Retromammary Breast Augmentation?

Characteristics of an Ideal Candidate

• Desire for a Natural Appearance and Feel: Patients who prefer a more natural breast contour and feel may find this technique more appealing. Since the implant is placed over the muscle, it integrates seamlessly with the natural breast tissue, enhancing its shape and volume without the constraints of muscle movement.
• Active Lifestyle or Frequent Upper Body Exercise: This technique is beneficial for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those with physically demanding jobs. Especially those who are physically active engaging in regular upper body workouts.
• No Significant Breast Drooping (Ptosis): Candidates should have minimal to no sagging of the breasts. Retromammary augmentation does not correct significant drooping. In cases of ptosis, a breast lift might be required either in conjunction with or instead of augmentation.
• Realistic Expectations and Understanding of the Procedure: An ideal candidate should have a clear understanding of what the surgery entails, the expected outcomes, and the potential risks. Realistic expectations about the results are crucial for satisfaction with the procedure.
• Good Overall Health: As with any surgery, candidates should be in good general health. This minimizes surgical risks and aids in a smoother recovery. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to ensure the suitability for surgery.
• Non-smokers or Willing to Quit: Smoking can significantly hinder healing and increase the risk of complications. Candidates who smoke are usually advised to quit several weeks before and after surgery.
• Emotional Readiness and Support: Undergoing breast augmentation is a decision that can impact emotional well-being. Candidates should be emotionally stable and have a support system to help them through the recovery process.

Lifestyle Considerations

The decision to undergo retromammary breast augmentation also depends on lifestyle considerations:

• Physical Activity Level: Women who are highly active and those who participate in upper body strength training will particularly benefit from this procedure, as it does not impede muscle function or movement.
• Professional Requirements: Those whose careers demand quick recovery or involve physical activity might find the retromammary approach more suitable due to the quicker recovery period and less interference with physical movements.
• Long-Term Considerations: Potential candidates should consider their long-term lifestyle plans, including future pregnancies or significant weight changes, as these can affect the results of the augmentation.

The ideal candidate for retromammary breast augmentation is a healthy individual with natural breast tissue, who seeks a natural-looking enhancement and leads an active lifestyle. It is crucial for potential candidates to have realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the procedure. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon who can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on the individual’s unique body type and aesthetic goals is essential.

Retromammary Breast Augmentation FAQs

How long does the surgery take, and what is the usual recovery time?

The duration of a retromammary breast augmentation surgery ranges from 60 – 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the procedure, implant size and individual patient factors. Recovery time varies, but most patients can resume normal activities the day following breast surgery. Patients can do full exercises at three weeks post-op. Full recovery, including the settling of implants into their final position, may take several weeks to a few months. It’s important to follow Dr. Joe’s post-operative care instructions for the best outcome.

What are the possible complications specific to retromammary breast augmentation?

While retromammary breast augmentation is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it has potential risks. These include infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant leakage or rupture, and the formation of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture). However, choosing a qualified surgeon and following proper pre- and post-operative care can minimize these risks.

Can retromammary breast augmentation be combined with other procedures, like a breast lift?

Yes, retromammary breast augmentation can be combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) if a patient has significant breast drooping. This combination can enhance both the size and the position of the breasts, leading to a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing result. Dr. Joe can advise you on whether a combined breast lift with implants procedure is appropriate for your goals and anatomy.

How does retromammary placement affect future mammograms or breast screenings?

Patients should inform the technician about their implants, as special techniques can be used to ensure comprehensive breast tissue imaging. Regular mammograms and screenings as recommended by healthcare providers should continue after breast augmentation.

Is it possible to breastfeed after undergoing retromammary breast augmentation?

Many women are able to breastfeed after retromammary breast augmentation, although there is no guarantee. The ability to breastfeed depends on several factors, including the type of incision and the specific surgical technique used. If breastfeeding post-surgery is a concern, it is important to discuss this with Dr. Joe prior to the procedure.

Be Sure to Choose a Qualified Plastic Surgeon

As with any surgical procedure, it is essential for potential candidates to consult with a qualified, board-certified, and experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. Joe to determine the best approach for their specific case.

Further Reading About Breast Augmentation with Dr. Joe

• Read Dr. Joe’s Quick Recovery Breast Augmentation Surgery Page
• Read Dr. Joe’s Breast Augmentation with a Lift Surgery Page
• Read Dr. Joe’s Blog about How to Minimize Bruising After Breast Augmentation
• Read Dr. Joe’s Blog about Exercising After Breast Augmentation
• Read Dr. Joe’s Blog about Does My Breast Implant Have a Warranty?

Medical References About Retromammary Breast Augmentation

• Retromammary versus retropectoral breast augmentation-a comparative study
• Breast augmentation: a review of subglandular and submuscular implantation
• Breast Augmentation – an overview
• Subfascial versus Subglandular Breast Augmentation
• Results of Subglandular Versus Subpectoral Augmentation