Over the Muscle vs. Under the Muscle Breast Implants: Which is Better?

Choosing between over-the-muscle and under-the-muscle implant placement is a big decision for women considering breast augmentation surgery. However, the ideal option depends on your body type, desired outcome, and the types of breast implants used. 

Over-the-muscle placement sits above the chest muscle for more noticeable cleavage and a quicker recovery, while under-the-muscle placement goes beneath the muscle for a more natural look and has a longer recovery time. 

Whether you're dealing with flat breasts, breast asymmetry, or volume loss after pregnancy, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. At LaBrasca Plastic Surgery in DuBois, PA, Dr. Algie LaBrasca works closely with each patient to recommend the best approach possible. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn more. 

Who should consider breast implants? 

Most healthy adults who are bothered by flat breasts or breast asymmetry are worth evaluating for breast augmentation surgery. Women who have experienced changes in breast volume after pregnancy or breastfeeding are also common candidates, and implants are frequently combined with other procedures as part of a mommy makeover to address multiple concerns at once. 

An ideal candidate for breast augmentation near Philadelphia has realistic expectations, stable overall health, and a clear sense of what they are hoping to achieve. During an appointment, Dr. LaBrasca will assess your anatomy and skin quality before making any recommendations. 

Over the muscle vs. under the muscle placement 

Both placements have advantages, and neither is universally better than the other. Here is how they compare:  

• Over the muscle (subglandular): Ideal for women wanting maximum cleavage or dramatic results from their procedure. Because the chest muscle is not affected during surgery, this placement works well for physically active women or those seeking shorter recovery times. 
• Under the muscle (submuscular): This tends to produce a more natural look and is associated with a lower risk of certain complications over time. However, recovery is typically longer since the muscle is involved. That said, this is one of the most commonly recommended options for a natural-looking result for women with flat breasts. 

Which placement should you choose? 

As mentioned, over the muscle placement may be the better fit if you want a shorter recovery or are highly active. Under the muscle tends to be the strong choice for women with minimal tissue or those prioritizing a softer, more natural contour long term. 

Concerns like breast asymmetry and the types of breast implants being used also factor into the decision. Implant size, shape, and material all interact with placement in ways that affect the result. For patients in Pittsburgh and the surrounding regions considering a mommy makeover, placement decisions are also influenced by which other procedures are combined and how the overall result should come together. 

There is no one formula that works for every patient, and the right answer is the one that fits your body, your lifestyle, and what you are hoping to see in the mirror. 

Find out what works for your body 

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most personalized procedures in plastic surgery, and the details matter. At LaBrasca Plastic Surgery in DuBois, PA, Dr. Algie LaBrasca brings a thoughtful, individualized approach to every consultation. Whether you are exploring a mommy makeover or have questions about the different types of breast implants involved, call today and find what options are right for you.