ENDOSCOPIC TRANSAXILLARY SUBPECTORAL BREAST AUGMENTATION

The transaxillary approach to breast augmentation is an established technique that offers the advantage of a remote incision in an aesthetically acceptable area. The main disadvantage to this approach is the lack of visualization of the implant pocket, necessitating blind, blunt dissection of the pectoral muscle origins. Occasionally, this limitation may result in improper implant placement and poor aesthetic results. In order to address this shortcoming, we have explored the use of minimally invasive endoscopic techniques in transaxillary augmentation to allow division of the pectoral muscle origin under direct visualization, effectively lowering the inframammary crease. Initial dissections and instrument development were performed in five unpreserved female cadavers. Subsequently, 103 implants have been placed in 53 patients utilizing the endoscopic transaxillary approach. Follow-up ranges from 2 weeks to 20 months. There have been no hematomas, infections, capsular contractures, or other complications. Aesthetic results have been good, and patient acceptance is high. By providing predictable and reproducible control of the inframammary crease, endoscopic dissection has allowed us to expand our indications for the transaxillary approach to breast augmentation. Surgical technique and brief clinical experience are described.