Are There Problems With Breast Implants Under the Muscle?

Breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure for enhancing the size and shape of their breasts. Whether you want to restore volume after pregnancy or boost your self-confidence, this procedure offers two implant placement options: submuscular, where the implant is positioned under the chest muscle, and subglandular, where it is placed over the glandular. 

While submuscular placement is a popular choice, are there any drawbacks to implant placement under the muscle? This article will explore this method’s benefits, potential challenges, and key considerations.

What Is Under-the-Muscle Breast Implant Placement?

Submuscular placement, also known as ‘under-the-muscle,’ involves placing the breast implant partially underneath the patient’s pectoralis major chest muscle. This differs from the sub glandular process, where the implant is positioned between the muscle and the breast tissue.

The ‘under-the-muscle’ method is a common recommendation for certain patients, particularly those with lower amounts of natural breast tissue. This placement offers a more natural-looking result, as the chest muscle provides coverage and support for the implant. 

Benefits of Under-the-Muscle Implant Placement

The precise placement underneath the muscle provides patients with plenty of benefits, including:

• More Natural Look and Feel – The placement beneath the muscle acts as a support or cushion, creating less visibility for the implant and a much more natural look and feel for the breasts. 
• Reduced Risk of Visible Rippling – The implant is less likely to visibly ripple the skin due to the muscle coverage, making it ideal for patients with thinner builds. 
• Lower Risk of Capsular Contracture – Medical studies have shown that the under-the-muscle placement has a lower chance of scar tissue hardening after surgery. 
• Better Support Over Time – The positioning under the muscle helps to secure the implant better, potentially reducing the chance of the breast sagging over time. 

Considerations With Under-the-Muscle Implants

While under-the-muscle implants provide plenty of benefits, the placement has a fair share of factors to consider. If you are leaning towards under-the-muscle implants, consider the following:

1. Longer Initial Recovery

Patients may feel more tightness or discomfort post-op as the procedure involves detaching the pectoralis major muscle. The recovery period can also be long.

2. Implant Settling (Drop and Fluff Process)

A key part of the under-the-muscle recovery period is allowing enough time for the implant to settle—also called the ‘drop and fluff’ process. Initially, the implants can appear much higher on the chest. This is completely normal and will fix itself over time.

3. Animation Deformity (Movement with Muscle Contraction)

In rare cases, under-the-muscle implants may cause animation deformity. This is where the breast implants move slightly as the patient’s muscles contract. For instance, when working out, flexing the chest muscles can lead to implant movement. 

The surgeon can reduce this condition by using specific implant techniques, such as the dual plane method, which places the top half of the implant under the muscle and the bottom half over it.

4. May Not Be Ideal for All Body Types

Under-the-muscle implants are not a one-size-fits-all process. Women with toned pectoral muscles or who engage in heavily active lifestyles may benefit from a different implant placement. It’s always key to consult with a certified, trustworthy plastic surgeon regarding breast implants and the placement that works best for your body type. 

Comparing Under-the-Muscle vs. Over-the-Muscle Placement

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Under-the-Muscle Placement?

There are quite a few patients who could benefit highly from going the under-muscle-placement route. For example, women who already have a smaller amount of breast tissue can receive a far more natural-looking result, as well as having less risk of issues like hardening scar tissue or rippling. 

Additionally, patients willing to go through a longer recovery process are rewarded with a long-lasting, aesthetically enhanced body image. 

Finally, patients who are not regularly active in chest-intensive exercises or activities are at less risk of the implants shifting out of place. 

How to Minimize Any Potential Issues

While there can be complications with an under-the-muscle procedure, such as ruptures, there are plenty of ways to minimize them. Patients can reduce the risks by: 

• Choosing the Right Surgeon: The experience of the professional always matters when it comes to a proper surgical procedure. Consult with a surgeon with the skill set to be able to tailor your implant placement according to your specific anatomy. 
• Following Post-Op Care Instructions: Going through the procedure is only one half of the journey, as recovery plays just as important a role in enhancing your image. Follow your surgeon’s post-op care instructions, such as using a properly supporting bra or paying attention to the surgical dressings. 
• Communicating Your Lifestyle Needs: If you have an active lifestyle or exercise routine, being a weightlifter, for example, consult with your surgeon regarding a different placement option
• Understanding the Recovery Process: Getting familiar with the recovery process helps to set the right expectations for your surgery, allowing you to feel more confident when you walk in for surgery. 

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Is Under-the-Muscle Placement Right for You?

Under-the-muscle breast augmentation remains a popular choice, especially for those with low breast tissue seeking a natural look. It’s crucial to consult an expert plastic surgeon who can tailor options to your body type and enhancement goals. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone; professional guidance can help you feel confident.

If you are considering under-the-muscle placement for your breast augmentation, schedule a consultation with a trusted, expert plastic surgeon like Dr. Mazaheri in Scottsdale. With years of surgical experience, Dr. Mazaheri has worked with various breast implant types and procedures. 

Dr. Mazaheri provides clear and helpful consultations, allowing you to fully understand your goals and how to achieve them best. Let’s achieve your body goals together. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does under-the-muscle placement make implants look more natural?

Yes, it can. This is due to the additional coverage from the soft tissue and more support for the implants. These factors allow the implant to appear smooth and natural, benefiting patients with lower breast tissue.

Will my implants take longer to settle under the muscle?

Your implants may take longer to settle, as the replacement requires a few months for a complete “drop and fluff” process. This is not something to be alarmed by; it is a normal part of healing from the procedure. 

Is under-the-muscle placement more painful?

It may be for some patients. Typically, this is due to the procedure requiring the pectoralis major muscle to be detached before placing the implant. This can cause some patients to feel more tightness or soreness during the first few weeks of recovery. However, proper post-op care and any recommended medication can minimize this.

Can I still work out after getting under-the-muscle implants?

You certainly can, but it is best to avoid chest-intensive exercises for the first 6 to 8 weeks. This will allow the implant to settle correctly. Your plastic surgeon will provide proper guidance regarding when and how you can resume and safely engage in your exercises. 

What is animation deformity, and should I be worried about it?

Animation deformity is when the breast implant moves or distorts due to excessive movement of the patient’s chest muscles. While rare, this condition can affect athletes or active individuals who engage in intense upper-body workouts. Specific techniques, like the dual plane method, can be used during surgery to minimize this condition.

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