Breast augmentation surgery begins with an incision, and where that incision is going to be is discussed with Dr. M.R. Khalifeh during your initial consultation at either his Frederick, Maryland or Chevy Chase, Maryland location.

One popular incision site is at the inframammary fold. The inframammary fold or crease is where the underside of the breast meets the chest wall.  The scar from this incision is very difficult to see. This incision site is suitable for women who have a natural pre-existing breast fold. Most women, except for those with very small breasts, have this fold. This incision allows the insertion of large silicone implants that will not fit through the periareolar incision at the nipple.  The inframammary fold incision allows the surgeon to place the implant over, partially under or completely under the pectoral muscle of the chest wall. It also allows the cosmetic surgeon to work closely on the breast. If a revision is necessary, the surgeon can reenter the tissue there without making an incision at another site.  Compared to the periareolar incision, there is a decreased chance of bacterial infection.

The size of the scar depends upon the type of implant chosen. Dr. Khalifeh’s expertise allows him to make the smallest scar physically possible. Saline implants require a 2.5-3.0 cm incision. The empty implant can be rolled like a cigar and inserted, then unrolled and filled with saline solution. Silicone implants are prefilled and require a 3-5 cm incision, perhaps even larger for very large implants. The silicone implant must be squeezed through the incision. Any scar can be treated with laser therapy at a future date to help it fade.

A problem arises when the breasts are very small or there is no natural crease. In this case, the incision may not be right on the inframammary crease. Later revision surgery, whether reduction or augmentation, will result in a change in the location of the inframammary fold which means that the inframammary scar may become visible.

Breast augmentation surgery takes place in Dr. Khalifeh’s accredited surgical center in Chevy Chase, Maryland under general or twilight sedation.  If the Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. is more convenient for your breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Khalifeh holds privileges there as well.  Breast augmentation surgery using the inframammary fold lasts one hour and an overnight stay is not necessary. It is best to take at least three to four days off work. The recovery time is one week and stitches are removed at that time. Another two weeks are necessary before strenuous activity may be resumed. Possible but rare complications include bleeding, infection, implant rupture, loss of breast or nipple sensation, implant related problems, capsular contracture and risks associated with anesthesia.

Call (301) 244-0148 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khalifeh.