Breast augmentation has reemerged as one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. An important decision is the location of the incision. I prefer to avoid a scar on the chest, for obvious reasons. My preference is the axillary incision, and I place the implant under the large pectoral muscle to obscure the upper margin of the implant. The final scar, which is high in the armpit, usually fades to a fine white line mimicking a natural skin fold. Other surgeons use the umbilical approach that also leaves the breast unscarred.

Recent statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Inc., once again shows that liposuction is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery in the United States. One of the big attractions of liposuction from the very beginning has been the possibility of dramatic results and very small incisions that can be hidden within natural body creases, and covered by even the skimpiest clothing. This remains so today. Technology has improved and results are even better without sacrificing the possibility of no detectable scars.

The plastic surgery profession has always, with good reason, prided itself on its attention to detail and on minimizing scars. Our traditional, more extensive procedures, including major facelifts and tummy tucks, achieve these goals and are still the best choice in many cases. The newer techniques I have described above build on that tradition. We truly can achieve great results in a stealthy fashion.

For more information and to contact me please visit my websites www.plasticsurgeryvermont.md and www.drmetzner.com.