February 28, 2014

Why Choose an Inframammary Incision for Breast Augmentation (Updated 2024)

When it comes to choosing breast implants , you have a lot of options when it comes to size, shape, and material. One breast augmentation decision that is often a simpler choice is where the incisions will be. Surgeons can take a few different approaches, but we at Plastic Surgery Center of the South agree that the inframammary incision is usually best.

Benefits of Inframammary Fold Incisions

The inframammary incision runs along the crease beneath the breasts, and it’s beneficial for a number of reasons:

1. Offers the Best Access for the Surgeon

Inframammary fold incisions are a bit longer than another common option, the periareolar incision that runs along the bottom border of the areola, so it gives me more visibility and better access to the interior of the breast. This allows for optimal placement of the implant and better results in the long run.

2. Avoids Milk Ducts

Another benefit of using this incision placement is that we don’t need to worry about damaging the glands or ducts in the nipple area. This can help preserve your ability to breastfeed with implants.

3. Produces Discreet Scars

Although inframammary incisions are a bit longer than some others, they are actually very inconspicuous because they are in a natural crease. They are completely covered by a bra or bikini top, and they are hidden beneath the breasts even when the patient is undressed. We also provide aftercare instructions and recommendations for topical products that help incisions heal and fade quickly until they are nearly invisible.

4. Appropriate for All Implant Styles

With an inframammary incision, a patient can choose any implant material, size, or shape. If, in the future, she wants to exchange her implants for a different size or style, the incision can be made in the same location without the risk of additional scarring.

Although the inframammary incision is often the best option, there are cases where we opt to use a periareolar, axillary (armpit), or transumbilical (bellybutton) incision based on a patient’s body and preferences. You can learn more about these options on our breast augmentation page.

To discover breast implant options, including recommended incision locations, request a consultation using our online form or call our office at (770) 421-1242 .

Share this article

Recent Posts

April 15, 2026
In the high-stakes professional environments of Atlanta—from the boardrooms of Buckhead to the innovative hubs of Midtown—presence is often defined by confidence. For many women, physical proportion plays a significant role in how they carry themselves and how their professional attire fits. However, the modern approach to breast augmentation has shifted away from the pursuit of maximum volume. Today, the focus is on "proportional harmony"—a strategic alignment between your surgical goals and your unique physical frames. At Plastic Surgery Center of The South, we view breast augmentation not as a standalone procedure, but as a corrective and enhancing measure designed to bring the body into balance. Understanding that "size" is a subjective metric is the first step toward achieving a result that looks natural, feels comfortable, and enhances your professional silhouette. Beyond the CC: Understanding the Mechanics of Proportion Many patients begin their journey by researching a specific volume, often measured in cubic centimeters (CCs). However, focusing solely on a numeric value is a common pitfall. A "300cc" implant will look radically different on a tall, athletic frame than it will on a petite, narrow-shouldered individual. As your dedicated partner in aesthetic health, our approach prioritizes your specific anatomy. We evaluate several critical factors: Chest Wall Width: The diameter of your breast tissue and the width of your ribcage dictate the "footprint" of the implant. An implant that is too wide can lead to unnatural contours, while one that is too narrow may not provide the desired cleavage. Existing Breast Tissue: The amount of natural tissue available to cover the implant affects the final aesthetic. This is a critical consideration when discussing the nuances of silicone vs saline options. Torso Length: A longer torso can often accommodate more projection without appearing "top-heavy," whereas a shorter torso requires a more subtle profile to maintain a balanced midsection. Selecting the Right Catalyst: Silicone vs. Saline The choice of material is often a matter of tactile preference and long-term maintenance. Both silicone and saline implants have distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall proportion and feel of the breast. Silicone Gel Implants - Silicone is frequently the preferred choice for patients seeking the most natural mimicry of human fat and breast tissue. Modern "form-stable" or cohesive gel implants maintain their shape exceptionally well, which is vital for maintaining a consistent profile under professional garments. They are particularly beneficial for patients with less natural breast tissue, as they are less prone to "rippling." Saline Implants - Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and offer the benefit of a smaller incision, as they are filled after insertion. While they can feel slightly firmer than silicone, they allow for precise, intraoperative adjustments to volume, ensuring that symmetry is achieved to the milliliter. During your consultation at Plastic Surgery Center of The South, we provide a comprehensive breast augmentation size guide through physical "sizers" and expert assessment, helping you feel the weight and see the projection of each option before your procedure. The Professional Silhouette: Symmetry and Clothing Fit For many of our patients in the business community, the primary motivation for surgery is the "proportional fit" of professional attire. When the bust is out of proportion with the hips and shoulders, blazers, sheath dresses, and tailored button-downs rarely fit off-the-rack. A successful augmentation achieves "The Balanced Profile": Shoulder Alignment: The bust should complement the width of the shoulders, creating a classic hourglass or athletic V-taper. The Lateral View: Proper projection ensures that the profile is feminine yet understated, avoiding an aggressive appearance that may feel out of place in a conservative corporate setting. Upper Pole Fullness: We focus on a natural slope rather than an artificial roundness, ensuring the results are indistinguishable from natural anatomy. Establishing Expertise: Why Local Specialization Matters At Plastic Surgery Center of The South, Dr. Corey Harkins, MD, who is a board-certified plastic surgeon in greater Atlanta is committed to his core values of ethics, integrity, honesty and education. His practice draws patients from Atlanta and across the U.S. The geographic context of his practice allows him to understand the lifestyle of his patients. Whether you are prepping for a keynote presentation or maintaining an active lifestyle your results must be durable, comfortable, and visually seamless. Long-Term Considerations for the Executive Lifestyle Breast augmentation is a long-term investment in your self-image. It is important to consider how your results will evolve over time. Longevity: While implants are not lifetime devices, choosing the right size and weight initially can prevent premature sagging or the need for a lift (mastopexy) later in life. Overly large implants can strain the skin envelope over time; choosing a proportional size ensures longevity. Recovery Management: For the busy professional, we utilize recovery protocols designed to minimize downtime, allowing you to return to your leadership role with minimal disruption. Health and Wellness: We prioritize your systemic health, ensuring that your implants do not interfere with mammographies or physical fitness routines. Actionable Takeaways for Your Transformation If you are considering breast augmentation, keep these strategic points in mind: Prioritize Dimensions Over CCs: Focus on how the breast will look in relation to your shoulder and hip width. Test Your Wardrobe: Bring a favorite professional blazer or dress to your consultation to see how different "sizer" volumes change the garment's fit. Consult the Experts: Avoid "template" surgeries. Ensure your surgeon provides a customized plan based on your unique chest wall measurements. Understand the Material: Weigh the benefits of silicone's natural feel against saline's adjustable volume and smaller incision. Your Path to Proportional Balance At Plastic Surgery Center of The South, we believe that aesthetic procedures should empower you to feel more like yourself. By moving beyond the simple metric of size and embracing the philosophy of proportion, you can achieve a result that enhances your confidence both in your personal life and your professional career. Our practice is dedicated to providing an executive-grade experience, from your initial private consultation to your final post-operative milestone. We invite you to explore how a tailored approach to breast augmentation can refine your silhouette and bolster your professional presence. To schedule an expert consultation and develop your personalized surgical plan, contact Plastic Surgery Center of The South today. Call us at (770) 421-1242 and let us help you find the perfect balance for your frame!
Woman smiling, holding hair, with
February 24, 2024
I perform a range of procedures at the Plastic Surgery Center of the South, and each kind of cosmetic surgery comes with different requirements and instructions. You should try to carefully follow each direction from your plastic surgeon, but I also give my patients a list of general tips to follow no matter what procedures […] The post Plastic Surgery Recovery: 3 Top Tips (Updated 2024) first appeared on Plastic Surgery Center of the South.
Woman touching her face, eyes closed, smiling, against a light gray background.
August 31, 2023
Have you considered cosmetic plastic surgery but aren’t sure if you’re a good candidate? Guess what? You’ve got company. Most people who come to our Atlanta plastic surgery practice admit they still have some doubts about going through with a procedure, whether it’s facial plastic surgery, body contouring, or breast enhancement procedure. Are You Ready […] The post QUIZ Plastic Surgery or Nonsurgical Treatments: Which Approach Is Right for You? first appeared on Plastic Surgery Center of the South.