When it comes to breast augmentation, there are a variety of different options that can impact how your results will look, including what type of breast implant you choose, where your incision is, and your plastic surgeon’s technique for placement.
Our very own Honolulu plastic surgeon, Dr. Larry Schlesinger, recently caught up with Eric Michaels of eHealth Radio to discuss his favorite breast augmentation method: transaxillary subpectoral breast augmentation using the Keller Funnel.
What is a transaxillary breast augmentation…and why does Dr. Larry prefer it??
There are a number of incision techniques used to place breast implants—inframammary incisions under the breast or periareolar incisions around the nipple being some of the most common. Transaxillary incisions are made in the armpit, where scarring is virtually invisible.
While transaxillary breast augmentation isn’t always an option for some, such as women with tuberous breasts, Dr. Schlesinger prefers this technique for most of his patients.
Placing breast implants through the armpits has a number of benefits, including:
- No visible scars. Not only is it unlikely that anyone will spend much time staring at your underarms, the armpit is also a great environment for incision healing. Your breasts will look beautiful, and you’ll have no marks to detract from your results.
- Less tension. Think about how mobile your shoulders are; the thin skin of your armpit allows your shoulder joint to move in most directions, and it has very little tension. This not only has a positive impact on your comfort level after surgery, it also helps makes sure your incisions heal well.
- Great for under-muscle placement. An armpit incision gives Dr. Schlesinger access to the subpectoral space so he can carefully place your breast implants under the muscle using an endoscope.
Using the Keller Funnel in transaxillary breast augmentation also comes with a number of advantages. This “no-touch” method not only reduces the risk of infection and post-op complications, it also allows Dr. Schlesinger to place larger implants through a smaller incision quickly and efficiently.
There’s just one caveat if you want excellent results with this procedure: transaxillary breast augmentation requires great skill, and it’s important to work with a surgeon who has extensive experience with this specialized technique and uses an endoscope to ensure optimal placement. Dr. Schlesinger has been placing breast implants through armpit incisions for many years and will be happy to help you understand the specifics and determine if it is a fitting procedure for you.
Listen to Dr. Schlesinger’s full interview to learn more—and give us a call when you’re ready to book your breast augmentation consultation!
