Understanding Breast Augmentation Terminology

[Katie Perry]

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Article Title: Understanding Breast Augmentation Terminology
Author: Katie Perry
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Many women perform extensive research prior to undergoing breast augmentation in an attempt to thoroughly understand all aspects of the procedure. However, they may come across new terminology that can be confusing or difficult to understand. The following list includes some of those more complicated terms � and a few common ones � that individuals might read or hear as they learn more about breast augmentation.

Anatomical Terms

The key to understanding breast augmentation is to first gain knowledge of the basic anatomy of the breasts and chest. Doing so can help patients grasp some of the surgical approaches that breast surgeons may mention during a consultation. Some anatomical terms include:

� Mammary glands � female breasts

� Nipple � the pigmented erectile tissue that projects forward from the front of a breast

� Areola � the dark area of skin that surrounds a nipple

� Cooper�s ligament � fibrous tissue that connects the breast to the overlying skin

� Pectoralis major � a large, fan-shaped muscle in the upper chest that provides motion to the arm via the shoulder joint

� Pectoralis minor � a thin, triangle-shaped muscle in the upper chest that lies beneath the pectoralis major and facilitates the rotation of the scapula, or shoulder blade

The following terms are used to define certain anatomical characteristics that a woman seeking breast augmentation may exhibit:

� Ptosis � drooping or sagging breasts that can occur as a result of lax Cooper�s ligaments; ptosis is a common concern among women who have undergone pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, and/or aging

� Asymmetry � breasts that are dissimilar in shape or size

� Micromastia � abnormally small breasts

Surgical Terms

Breast augmentation surgery involves incisions through which implants are placed in the breast pockets. The specific incision used in a breast augmentation procedure will depend on the type of implant used, a patient�s preferences regarding visible scars, and where the implants will be placed in relation to the chest muscles. Each type of incision is made in a different location of the body, and is named for that location. Similarly, the terms used to describe implant placement are named based on the location of the implants within the chest wall. A thorough understanding of these surgical terms is important for a woman undergoing breast augmentation so that she can actively participate with her surgeon in the decision-making relating to the procedure.

The main types of incisions include:

� Inframammary fold incision � an incision made in the breast crease, where the base of the breast connects to the chest wall; the resulting scar is typically hidden by the breast

� Periareolar incision � an incision made around the outer edge of an areola; this type of incision allows the resulting scar to blend in with the darker skin of the areola

� Transaxillary incision � an incision made in the underarm region; the resulting scar is usually small and nearly impossible to see

� Transumbilical (TUBA) incision � an incision made in the umbilical (belly button) region; an endoscope is inserted into the incision and is used to create a tunnel through the fat layer just beneath the skin from the belly button to the breast pocket; the resulting scar is often impossible to detect

The following terms define the types of implant placement:

� Subglandular/submammary placement � an implant is placed just behind the mammary gland tissue but above the pectoralis major and minor muscles

� Subpectoral placement � an implant is placed partially beneath the pectoralis major and above the pectoralis minor muscles

� Submuscular placement � an implant is placed completely beneath the pectoralis major muscle and connective tissues, while still remaining above the pectoralis minor muscle

Ask a Surgeon

If you�re considering breast augmentation and come across terms that you do not understand, schedule a consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. A surgeon who has met the educational and training requirements necessary for board certification can give you very specific information about breast augmentation and the related terminology you�ll need to understand as a patient. Additionally, an experienced surgeon can provide you with a general idea of whether breast augmentation or a combination of procedures can help you reach your aesthetic goals.


About The Author: Katie Perry is an online content editor in the Tampa Bay area. She posts articles about plastic surgery topics and procedures including breast augmentation, breast implants, and more. http://bayshoreplasticsurgery.com

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