Reoperative Transaxillary Subfascial Breast Augmentation and Fat Grafting: Technical Highlights and a Step-by-Step Video Guide

Abstract

Summary: Reoperative procedures after breast augmentation are frequently more complex than primary cases because of local complications and insufficient soft-tissue coverage. Although the transaxillary incision is often indicated in primary breast augmentation, limitations of this approach include secondary surgery and correcting complications after using this approach via the same incision. Combining the transaxillary technique with a subfascial pocket has been suggested to avoid breast scarring and the limitations of submuscular pockets represented by breast animation. With advances in autogenous fat grafting (AFG) techniques, implant coverage alternatives and more natural outcomes have been reported from more superficial implant pockets. Simultaneous AFG with silicone implants (defined as hybrid breast augmentation) has been evaluated recently as an attractive procedure. These two techniques combine to provide breast projection and natural cleavage while camouflaging implant edges. AFG is also important to reduce the intermammary distance and achieve a smoother transition between the breasts. The transaxillary approach can be useful in reoperative breast augmentation and avoids additional scarring on the breast. This article and the accompanying videos provide a detailed, step-by-step guide to reoperative hybrid breast augmentation using a subfascial transaxillary approach, with a predictable and optimized surgical outcome.