Breast Augmentation Incisions: Armpit vs. Breast Crease

Between an armpit incision and a breast crease incision, there is no one right answer for everyone. Each approach has clear pros and cons, and the better fit depends on your body type and lifestyle. When preparing for breast surgery, the incision site can be just as hard a decision as the implant itself, and many people go back and forth between the two mainly because of scar concerns. Ruby Plastic Surgery near Sinsa Station compares the armpit (transaxillary) and breast crease (inframammary) incisions and explains how to care for your scar.

Armpit Incision: A Hidden Scar

The biggest advantage of the armpit incision is that the scar is tucked into the armpit crease, making it the least noticeable after surgery. That's why it's popular with people who often wear bikinis or revealing clothes. Because the surgery is performed with an endoscope, the pocket can be created precisely and the implant placed safely.

In the past, some felt this approach was less precise than the crease incision because it was harder to see the surgical field, but advances in endoscopic equipment and technique have largely reduced this drawback. However, arm movement can affect how the scar forms, so you'll need to limit arm movement early on, and using your shoulders or arms may be somewhat uncomfortable during recovery.

Breast Crease Incision: A Wide Surgical View

Because the breast crease incision follows the fold beneath the breast, it offers the easiest access to the surgical field and allows the implant pocket to be created precisely. This means high surgical accuracy with less bleeding and pain, so a relatively quick recovery can be expected. If you have some sagging or are considering revision surgery, a crease incision may be the better option.

Pain tends to be less than with the armpit incision, and most people can return to daily life within a week after surgery. One downside is that while the scar is hard to see when you're standing or sitting, it may show when you lie down.

Comparing the Two Incisions at a Glance

Scar Care, Step by Step

Whichever incision you choose, scar care after surgery is very important. Appropriate care should continue consistently at each stage, from right after surgery through suture removal and beyond. UV exposure worsens scar pigmentation, so apply SPF 50+ sunscreen thoroughly to the surgical area for at least one year and avoid direct sunlight. Silicone ointment or sheets, along with massage as directed by your doctor, also go a long way toward making the scar softer and fainter.

Key Takeaways

The incision method is a choice that greatly affects the results of breast surgery and your satisfaction. If hiding the scar is your priority, the armpit incision may suit you; if precision, faster recovery, and correcting sagging come first, the breast crease incision may be the better choice. Make a careful decision based on thorough information, choosing the method that best fits your body and your life.

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Last reviewed: 2026-10-07

This article provides general medical information. Individual diagnosis and treatment plans are determined through an in-person consultation.