Breast augmentation surgery in Riyadh is a popular procedure, and one of the most important decisions during planning is choosing the incision location. The incision choice affects scar visibility, surgical access, and sometimes the type of implant or placement. Your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your body shape, implant type, desired outcome, and personal preference. Breast augmentation surgery in Riyadh has become increasingly popular for women seeking natural-looking enhancement and improved body confidence.

Below are the most common incision options used in breast augmentation and what you can expect from each.

1. Inframammary Incision (Under the Breast Fold)

The inframammary incision is made along the crease under the breast, where the breast meets the chest wall. This is one of the most popular options because it provides excellent access and control during surgery.

Benefits

• Best visibility and access for the surgeon

• Easier implant placement and pocket creation

• Often preferred for larger implants

• Generally has a lower risk of affecting nipple sensation

• Scars can be well hidden under the breast fold

Considerations

• The scar is located directly under the breast, so it may be visible when lying down or lifting the breast

• Requires a well-defined breast fold for the scar to hide naturally

Ideal Candidates

• Women who want larger implants

• Women with defined breast folds

• Those who prefer more precise implant placement

2. Periareolar Incision (Around the Areola)

The periareolar incision is made around the outer edge of the areola (the darker skin around the nipple). This method can hide the scar within the natural color change between the areola and breast skin.

Benefits

• Scar blends well with the natural border of the areola

• Good access for implant placement

• Can be suitable for patients needing breast lift or areola adjustments at the same time

Considerations

• Higher risk of affecting nipple sensation compared to inframammary incision

• Slightly increased risk of breastfeeding problems for some women

• Possible higher risk of infection because of proximity to breast ducts

• May not be ideal for women with very small areolas

Ideal Candidates

• Women who want a well-hidden scar

• Those with larger areolas or who need minor areola reshaping

• Women comfortable with potential sensation changes

3. Transaxillary Incision (Armpit Incision)

The transaxillary incision is made in the armpit. The implant is then tunneled through to the breast pocket, leaving no scar on the breast itself.

Benefits

• No scar on the breast

• Scar is hidden in the armpit crease

• Good option for women who strongly want to avoid breast scars

Considerations

• More technically challenging for the surgeon

• Less direct access, which can affect precision in implant placement

• May be harder to correct implant position or adjust the pocket later

• Often not recommended for larger implants or complex cases

• Limited ability to combine with breast lift procedures

Ideal Candidates

• Women who want to avoid breast scars

• Those with moderate implant sizes and good breast tissue

• Patients who understand the technical limitations

4. Transumbilical Incision (TUBA) (Belly Button Incision)

The transumbilical incision (also known as TUBA) is made through the belly button, and the implant is tunneled up to the breast. This method is less common and is not offered by all surgeons.

Benefits

• No scars on the breast

• Scar is hidden inside the belly button

• Attractive option for women who want minimal visible scarring

Considerations

• Only suitable for saline implants (because they are filled after placement)

• More complex technique with limited control for precise implant placement

• Not ideal for revision surgery or complex cases

• Higher risk of implant malposition or asymmetry in some cases

Ideal Candidates

• Women wanting minimal visible scarring

• Those who are good candidates for saline implants

• Patients who accept the limitations and potential risks

How Incision Choice Affects Implant Placement

The incision option can influence whether the implant is placed above or below the muscle:

• Inframammary incision is very versatile and commonly used for both subglandular and submuscular placements.

• Periareolar incision also allows both placements but may have slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation.

• Transaxillary and TUBA incisions are usually more limited and may be better suited for subglandular placement, especially for saline implants.

Your surgeon will recommend the best placement based on your anatomy and desired result.

Factors Influencing the Best Incision Choice

Your surgeon will consider the following when recommending the incision type:

• Your breast size, shape, and skin quality

• The implant type (saline vs silicone)

• Desired implant size and projection

• Whether you also need a breast lift or areola adjustment

• Your preference regarding scar visibility

• Your anatomy and ability to heal