Breast augmentation techniques vary widely, and selecting the right approach is crucial to achieving the balanced, natural-looking results you desire. Guided by extensive experience and advanced training, double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael K. Lee has performed countless breast augmentations with a meticulous eye for detail and patient safety.
In this blog, Dr. Lee discusses subfascial breast augmentation—a technique distinguished by its unique implant placement beneath the fascia but above the chest muscle. We’ll explore how this method compares to other approaches, its potential benefits, and how Dr. Lee’s patient-centric philosophy can help you make an informed decision about your breast augmentation journey.
Implant Placement Basics
There are three main options for implant placement:
Subglandular (Above the Muscle)
- In a subglandular placement, implants sit just beneath the breast tissue but above the chest muscle
- This option often offers a quicker recovery and avoids any interference with the chest muscles
- However, for patients with minimal existing breast tissue, the implant edges can be more visible, and there can be a slightly higher chance of capsular contracture
Submuscular (Below the Muscle)
- With submuscular placement, implants sit behind both the breast tissue and the pectoralis major muscle
- This approach can produce very natural contours and may reduce the risk of capsular contracture or visible rippling
- On the other hand, it may involve a longer, more uncomfortable recovery and can sometimes cause “animation deformities” (implant movement when flexing the chest muscles)
Subfascial (Beneath the Fascia, Above the Muscle)
- The subfascial technique offers a balance between subglandular and submuscular placement
- By positioning the implant under the fascia—a supportive layer covering the pectoralis major—the procedure provides added implant coverage without fully placing it beneath the muscle
- This can help mitigate issues like visible implant edges and rippling while also minimizing muscle distortion or pain during workouts
What Makes Subfascial Breast Augmentation Unique?
Because the fascia adds an extra layer of support, subfascial placement can help camouflage the implant edges in patients with thinner or moderate breast tissue. This often results in a smooth, natural-looking slope at the upper portion of the breast.
Here are more examples of what sets this method apart:
- More Comfortable Recovery: With subfascial placement, there is less disruption to the pectoralis muscle, potentially leading to a more comfortable post-operative recovery. Many patients experience less tightness and discomfort compared to a fully submuscular approach.
- Less Implant Distortion: Subfascial implants may be less likely to shift with chest muscle movement for active patients who frequently engage in upper body workouts or sports. Submuscular implants can sometimes appear to “move” when the pectoralis is flexed, creating an undesired effect known as “animation deformity.”
- Balanced Aesthetic: Subfascial augmentation can provide a pleasing blend of fullness and projection without appearing overly “augmented.” While subglandular implants can look more pronounced in some cases, subfascial adds a layer that helps create soft, natural contours.
Start Your Journey with Dr. Lee
Dr. Michael K. Lee is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon who has refined his technical skill set to produce stunning yet natural-looking results for patients in and beyond Ladera Ranch, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, and Lake Forest. Dr. Lee’s belief in a concierge-style, patient-centric approach ensures that he will help you choose the ideal technique for your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Whether you benefit most from subfascial placement or another approach, Dr. Lee will customize every detail to deliver the look you’ve always imagined. Our team is here to help you transform with comfort, clarity, and confidence. Book a consultation with us today and let Dr. Lee’s expertise guide you in selecting the ideal breast augmentation technique for your unique anatomy and goals.
