Beyond size and shape, another major decision in breast augmentation is where the implant will be placed. Implants can go either under the chest muscle (submuscular) or over the muscle, beneath breast tissue (subglandular). Each option has distinct advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your anatomy, lifestyle, and desired outcome. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eugene Kim provides breast augmentation to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding communities.
What Does Placement Mean?
Breast implants can be positioned in one of two main ways. Submuscular placement means the implant sits partially or completely under the pectoralis major muscle. Subglandular placement means the implant sits above the muscle but below the natural breast tissue. The decision impacts appearance, recovery, and long-term maintenance.
Pros of Under the Muscle (Submuscular) Placement
- More natural look: Muscle coverage creates smoother transitions at the top of the implant.
- Reduced risk of visible rippling: Especially important for women with little natural breast tissue.
- Lower risk of capsular contracture: Studies show slightly reduced rates compared to over-the-muscle placement.
- Better mammogram visibility: The muscle helps separate implant from breast tissue, making imaging clearer.
Cons of Under the Muscle Placement
- Longer recovery: Because the muscle is involved, soreness and tightness can last longer.
- Animation deformity: The implant may move slightly when flexing chest muscles.
- Initial implant settling: It can take weeks or months for implants to drop into their final position.
Pros of Over the Muscle (Subglandular) Placement
- Shorter recovery: Less discomfort since the chest muscle isn’t manipulated.
- No animation deformity: Implants don’t shift when flexing chest muscles.
- More lift in mild sagging cases: Can create a fuller look without requiring a breast lift.
Cons of Over the Muscle Placement
- Less natural look in thin patients: Without muscle coverage, implant edges may be more visible.
- Higher risk of rippling: Particularly in women with minimal breast tissue.
- Slightly higher risk of capsular contracture compared to submuscular placement.
Factors That Influence the Choice
Your surgeon will make placement recommendations based on:
- Amount of natural breast tissue
- Skin thickness and elasticity
- Desired implant size and profile
- Activity level (athletes may benefit from over-the-muscle placement)
- Long-term aesthetic goals
Which Is Better?
There is no universal “best” option. Many women with smaller breasts or thinner tissue are advised to go under the muscle for a more natural look. Women with sufficient breast tissue who want quicker recovery or avoid animation deformity may choose over the muscle.
The decision between under-muscle and over-muscle implant placement is highly individualized. By weighing the pros and cons with your surgeon, you can select the option that balances your aesthetic vision with your anatomy and lifestyle.
Contact the Office of Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon Dr. Eugene Kim
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, CA and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.