While more than 300,000 women have breast augmentation every year, every procedure is unique to the patient.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean T. Lille has been in private practice in Scottsdale, AZ, for more than 25 years and has performed around 3,500 breast augmentations. His focus on safety, precision, and aesthetics, all from a personalized perspective, has earned him an outstanding reputation.

That customized approach encompasses many things, including planning the ideal implant placement. During your consultation, Dr. Lille evaluates your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle to determine which placement — over or under the muscle — will give you the best outcome.

Over the Muscle (Subglandular) Placement

Over-the-muscle, or subglandular placement, positions the breast implant between the breast tissue and the pectoral (chest) muscle. This option is often ideal for patients with sufficient natural breast tissue to cover the implant. It typically provides a fuller upper-pole appearance and a slightly more dramatic result.

One of the main advantages of this approach is a shorter recovery period, as the chest muscle isn’t manipulated during surgery. Patients may also experience less postoperative discomfort.

However, this technique may not be suitable for those with thinner tissue, as the implant could be more visible or palpable over time. Dr. Lille carefully assesses skin thickness and breast shape to ensure the most natural, symmetrical result possible.

This approach may be ideal for highly active women who want the shortest possible recovery period.

Under the Muscle (Submuscular) Placement

Submuscular placement involves positioning the implant beneath the pectoral muscle. This method creates a more gradual transition from chest to breast, which often looks and feels more natural, especially in slimmer patients or those with less breast tissue.

Submuscular placement reduces the risk of visible implant edges, rippling, and capsular contracture, which is why Dr. Lille generally favors this approach.

This placement can also be better for mammograms. When implants are placed under the pectoral muscle, more of the natural breast tissue sits above the implant, making it easier for radiologists to see the breast tissue clearly during mammography.

Although recovery can take slightly longer, most patients find the results to be long-lasting and highly aesthetic once healing is complete.

Choosing the Right Placement for You

The best implant placement depends on your anatomy, cosmetic goals, and personal preferences. Dr. Lille takes a measured, artistic approach to ensure that each breast augmentation complements your natural proportions while maintaining long-term comfort and safety.

Breast Augmentation Consultations in Scottsdale, AZ

If you’re considering breast augmentation, you deserve a personalized consultation with Scottsdale’s best plastic surgeon. With exceptionally low complication rates and extensive surgical expertise, Dr. Lille provides reliable results that are refined, balanced, and natural-looking. Call 480-661-6197 to book your consultation in Scottsdale. We welcome patients from Fountain Hills, Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale.