Breast Implant Incision Sites

The most commonly used site option is the inframammary incision,
which is made below the breast fold.

What are my incision site options for breast augmentation?

There are three common incision sites used during breast implant surgery.

  • Inframammary: the most common incision, made under your breast at the crease where the breast meets the body
  • Periareolar: the incision is made around the nipple
  • Transaxillary: the incision is made in the armpit, which gives the surgeon easier access to the chest muscle

Inframammary Incision

This is the most commonly used incision site and is made below the breast fold. This incision is generally less concealed and may cause fewer breastfeeding difficulties than the periareolar incision option.

Periareolar Incision

An incision around the nipple that is typically the most concealed. It is associated with a higher likelihood of breastfeeding difficulties than the other incision options, because it involves cutting through the breast tissue. This may also increase the chance there will be a change in nipple sensation.

Transaxillary Incision

This incision is made under the arm. A lighted camera (endoscope) is used to help tunnel through the area to create a pocket behind the breast. This incision site is used primarily to place saline breast implants before they are filled.

Transumbilical Incision

The transumbilical incision is made in the belly button or umbilical channel. This incision site has not been studied by MENTOR® and is not recommended. It may cause damage to the implant shell.