Muscle-splitting breast augmentation: a new pocket in a different plane.

[BACKGROUND] Breast augmentation usually is performed in subglandular, subfascial, or partial submuscular pockets, including the dual plane. A new pocket has been described and used by the author. The initial pocket was made in the subglandular plane up to the lower level of the nipple-areolar complex, and the submuscular plane was reached by splitting the pectoralis major muscle without its release from the costal margin. The implant lies in this plane simultaneously behind and in front of the pectoralis.

[METHODS] From October 2005 to November 2006, 125 patients underwent bilateral breast augmentation using the new technique. Soft cohesive gel microtextured round implants ranging in size from 230 to 440 ml were used.

[RESULTS] All the patients experienced a quick recovery with three-dimensional enhancement and having the benefits of both subglandular and submuscular planes. No rippling, lateral displacement, double-bubble deformity, or muscle contraction-associated deformities were seen. All the patients had aesthetically natural cleavage, with the nipple at the most projected part of the breast. Postoperative analgesia requirements were reduced because of dissection in natural planes.

[CONCLUSION] For adequate cover of the prosthesis, only the upper part of the pectoralis major muscle is required. This can be achieved by using the pectoralis muscle-splitting technique. The pectoralis major was split in the direction of its fibers, avoiding extensive muscle release. Surgical morbidity was reduced, resulting in a quick postoperative recovery and a more natural three-dimensional appearance of the breast.