Considerations in incision location
| Location | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Inframammary | Most common choice Excellent visualization of both the subpectoral and suprapectoral planes of dissection | Visible scar along inferior pole of the breast |
| Periareolar | Excellent exposure of the implant pocket Less sensory deficit to lower breast pole | Potentially higher rate of capsular contracture Associated with moderate-severe implant malposition and increased risk for secondary procedures Greater propensity for nipple-areola complex dysesthesia Scar located on visible breast surface |
| Transaxillary | Ideal for saline implants (only require small incisions) Does not affect subsequent sentinel lymph node biopsies High satisfaction rate vs inframmary incisions | Difficult route to place silicone implants Associated with moderate to severe implant malposition and increased risk for secondary procedures |
| Transumbilical | Remote incision, may be obscured by umbilicus | Less control of implant positioning |