Transaxillary breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures that follows a unique approach, requiring the surgeon to make a tiny incision of 1.5 inches in the crease of your armpit.
Unlike the traditional liposuction, which requires the surgeon to make an incision on the breast tissue, transaxillary liposuction does not modify your breast tissue. Minimally invasive surgery has become popular in recent years because it produces a virtually unnoticeable scar.
There are numerous transaxillary breast augmentation pros and cons. For example, the most significant benefit of this procedure is that the incision/scar is in the armpit, preventing people from noticing or viewing it. Thus, you can wear different clothes, including tops, undergarments, and bathing suits, without worrying about the scar visibility.
On the other hand, transaxillary breast augmentation also has a few downsides. First, the incision made in the crease of your armpit is compatible with saline implants. It means the surgeon can’t use a silicone-based implant to improve the shape and size of your breast.
If you want the surgeon to use a silicone implant, they will make an additional incision. Besides, studies show that transaxillary breast augmentation prevents the surgeon from completely controlling the implant’s position. Read on!
How long will full recovery take?
Generally, patients who undergo breast augmentation via the transaxillary incision can return to their day-to-day life within seven to ten days. It is crucial to consult your surgeon before resuming exercise or physical activities. You will experience soreness, inflammation, swelling, discomfort, and pain in the treated area.
Bruising is another common side effect of transaxillary breast augmentation. Your body’s natural reaction is to heal the incision while adjusting the newly placed saline implants. Transaxillary breast augmentation scars are about an inch and a half in length. The location of the scar is the crease of your armpit.
The good news is that transaxillary breast augmentation does not alter the breast tissue, and the incision in the armpit is barely visible. Moreover, it is one of the best techniques for placing saline implants without disturbing the structure of your breasts’ external tissue structure.
Transaxillary Breast Augmentation Recovery Supplies
- 4×4 gauze or rolls
- Disposable exam gloves
- You can choose nitrile, latex, or vinyl
- Tape of dressing
- Neosporin or any other antibiotic ointment
- Alcohol pads
- OTC drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- A laxative made of polyethylene glycol
- Mild soap or body wash
- Probiotics supplements
- Non-sugary drinks
- Vegetable or fruit juices
In addition to these supplies, you will need a premium-quality compression garment to reduce pressure on your armpit and speed up the recovery process. The compression garment also reduces the risk of scar visibility, infections, and fluid accumulation. Moreover, you don’t need to purchase expensive sports bras. However, if your surgeon recommends sports bras, invest in them.
Tips for fast recovery after transaxillary breast augmentation
Transaxillary breast augmentation is a relatively more effective and safer procedure than traditional surgery. However, it requires careful planning and preparation for the rehabilitation period. Your surgeon will ask you to rest for a few days and avoids strenuous activities.
Likewise, avoid sleeping on your chest for at least eight weeks. Prop yourself up on multiple pillows and ensure you sleep at a 45-degree angle. The purpose is to reduce inflammation, swelling, soreness, and bruising.
At the same time, sleeping in this position with pillows can prevent implants from getting damaged. Avoid alcohol and smoking until you fully recover from transaxillary breast augmentation. Smoking is one of the leading causes of slow healing, fluid accumulation, and infections.
Besides, alcohol consumption will dehydrate your body and increase the risk of complications, including poor drug interactions, increased infections, and more bleeding. Avoid strenuous activities to reduce the risk of hematomas.
What to do Next?
If you want to know more about transaxillary breast augmentation surgery or recovery, you can contact our board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon at Moon Plastic Surgery Clinic, Miami. Call us between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Monday to Friday to discuss your requirements.
FAQ About transaxillary breast augmentation
How painful is breast augmentation recovery?
Although you won’t feel discomfort or pain during the surgery due to anesthesia, you will experience discomfort, inflammation, soreness, bruising, and pain once the anesthesia wears off. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines to streamline the recovery process.
