Subglandular Breast Implants

Over the Muscle or Subglandular Breast Implant Placement

This means placement of the breast implant above the pectoral muscles but below the mammary gland. Technically, all breast implants used in breast augmentation are subglandular because breast implants placed below the muscle are also below the mammary gland. However, this term specifically refers to saline or silicone breast implant placement just below the mammary glands and above the muscle. This placement is also referred to as retroglandular or submammary.

Pros to Sub-glandular Breast Implant Placement

• Less complicated surgery, usually with less pain and a quicker recovery, since it does not involve the muscle.  
• As shown in the illustration at left, the implant is placed below the glands but the muscle is not affected.
• As discussed below, women with a small amount of ptosis (sag) may opt for "overs" if trying to get some lift without a partial or full mastopexy (breast lift).
• Subglandular placement may be best for bodybuilding women because it can look more natural for them. Very muscular women may see distortion from an implant placed below the muscle when they flex. Placing the implant above the muscle remedies that issue.

Cons to Sub-glandular Breast Implant Placement

• Recent studies indicate that capsular contracture may be more likely with subglandular breast implant placement.
• Mammography can be obscured and, at best, is more difficult for the technician to read.
• The risk of visible breast implant rippling of the implant may be heightened. Very little separates the breast implant from the skin's surface making rippling more likely.
• Little support for weight of implant increases risk of needing a breast lift later.

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Breast Augmentation Guide - Breast Implant Placement

• About Breast Augmentation
• All About Breast Implants
• All About Breast Augmentaiton Surgery
• Breast Implant Placement
  • Subglandular Breast Implants  (you are here)
  • Partial Submuscular Breast Impants  
  • Complete Submuscular Breast Implants
  • Subfacial Breast Implants
  • Advantages and Disadvantages of Placement Techniques