Implant placement relative to the pectoralis major muscle continues to be a source of controversy. Although the majority of plastic surgeons prefer submuscular placement, there is still a large group of plastic surgeons that feel strongly about subglanduler placement. Each group can make convincing arguments regarding their position of choice. It’s safe to say that both approaches have advantages and disadvantages.
In the context of these discussions, we feel that every patient needs to be considered individually. Each patient has unique anatomic findings that effect the decision to place the implant under or over the muscle. The aesthetic goals of the patient are equally important and have a significant impact on the decision as well. The vast majority of patients are striving for larger breasts with a natural look. They want balance, harmony, and proportion with the surrounding structures.
The majority of breast implants are placed in a submuscular position. There are several advantages to the approach. These include softer tissue coverage, which results in fewer visible folds, creases, and ripples in the implant. This is especially important in women who have thin skin and minimal breast tissue that want saline implants.
