If I Get Implants, Will I Have Visible Scars on My Breasts?
Patients considering breast augmentation at my Tampa, FL, plastic surgery office are understandably worried about scarring. There are several ways I minimize scarring during breast augmentation, including using the KELLER FUNNEL®2 to place implants. This simple yet effective tool allows me to create smaller incisions than traditional methods. In this blog post, I’ll explain more about the tool, as well as incision patterns designed to produce very little visible scarring.
Scarring After Cosmetic Surgery
It’s important to first understand that surgery of any kind will produce scarring. However, you can take steps, like practicing good sun protection, to lessen their appearance. It’s also important to take your time researching and choosing a trusted plastic surgeon. Someone who is board certified like myself, for example, will be current on the most effective techniques.
Lastly, you’ll need to consider where the incisions will be placed. I work closely alongside my patients to provide everything they need to make a well-informed decision. While I’ll provide much more specific information based on your needs and goals, let’s begin by looking at the three incision patterns you’ll be choosing from.
Transaxillary Incisions
With transaxillary incisions, your breasts will remain completely scar-free. That’s because the implants will be placed within the breasts using incisions made in your underarms. Many people find this helps them feel the most confident in their results after surgery.
Periareolar Incisions
The areola, or pigmented skin that makes up the nipple, is a wonderful place to camouflage scarring. With the periareolar incision technique, I carefully trace this delineation between the lighter and darker skin to access the breast tissue. In some cases, an incision will be made around the entire circumference of the areola whereas in others, I only need to create a crescent shape along the lower half.
Inframammary Incisions
If you choose inframammary incisions, scarring can be easily hidden on your breast's underside. If you’re skeptical they’ll be hidden, remember that your breasts will have much greater volume and create more of a fold against the ribcage than you might have right now.
Saline vs. Silicone Implants
Saline implants consist of an empty silicone shell that is inserted into the body and then filled to the desired size with sterile saline. While this can allow for smaller incisions, more and more patients at my Tampa practice are choosing silicone breast implants for their superior look and feel. That’s where the Keller Funnel comes in.
The Keller Funnel No-Touch Surgical Technique
The Keller Funnel is a great way for surgeons to improve their skills. The flexible, transparent funnel allows for easier insertion and less contact with the treatment site. While it can certainly help lessen scarring, it also minimizes the risk of complications like capsular contracture – a serious side effect that can distort your results and require revision surgery.
Request a Breast Enhancement Consultation
I pride myself on my commitment to patients’ safety and satisfaction with their results. Unlike some other plastic surgeons in the Tampa area, I’m board-certified and I’m also committed to continuing education that extends well beyond the board’s requirements.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, I’d love to meet with you. Reach out today to contact our practice and get started on feeling completely confident in your figure.
