Transaxillary breast augmentation is a breast enhancement technique in which the implant is placed through a small incision hidden in the armpit — leaving no scar on the breast itself. For women who want fuller, more balanced breasts without any visible scarring on or around the breast, this approach offers a discreet alternative to traditional incision sites. Performed under general anesthesia with endoscopic guidance for precision, transaxillary breast augmentation delivers natural-looking results with the only incision tucked away in the natural fold of the underarm. At Tran Plastic Surgery in Huntington Beach, each procedure is customized to a patient’s anatomy and goals for a natural, proportionate result.
What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation?
“Transaxillary” refers to the incision location: the axilla, or armpit. Instead of making an incision on the breast — under the breast fold (inframammary) or around the areola (periareolar) — the surgeon creates a small incision in the natural crease of the armpit and, using a tiny endoscopic camera for guidance, forms a precise pocket for the implant beneath the chest muscle.
Because the implant is inserted through this hidden site, there is no scar anywhere on the breast. The technique works with both saline and silicone implants — saline implants are inserted empty and filled once in place, while silicone gel implants can also be placed transaxillary by an experienced surgeon using endoscopic technique. Your surgeon will help you choose the right breast implant type for your goals.
Why Choose the Transaxillary (Underarm) Approach?
Breast augmentation can be performed through several different incision sites, but the transaxillary approach offers one standout advantage for women focused on scarring.
No Scars on the Breast
The single biggest benefit is that no incision is made on the breast or areola. The only scar is hidden in the armpit, where it is naturally concealed and easy to keep out of sight. This makes the approach especially appealing for women who wear low necklines, have a history of noticeable scarring, or simply prefer to keep the breast completely scar-free.
Precise, Endoscopic Placement
Working through the armpit with endoscopic guidance allows the surgeon to create a controlled, symmetrical pocket beneath the muscle for a natural-looking result that moves and settles naturally over time.
During your consultation in Huntington Beach, Dr. Tuan Tran will confirm whether the transaxillary approach is the best option for your anatomy and goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Transaxillary Breast Augmentation?
This approach is well-suited to many women seeking breast enhancement. Good candidates typically include:
- Women who want to increase breast size or improve balance without any scars on the breast
- Patients with good skin tone and minimal breast sagging (ptosis)
- Women choosing saline or silicone implants placed beneath the muscle
- Non-smokers, or those willing to stop smoking well before and after surgery
- Healthy individuals at a stable weight with realistic expectations about size and shape
Because the technique does not include a breast lift, women with significant sagging who need the breasts repositioned may be better served by a different approach. A thorough in-person evaluation is the best way to determine the right procedure and to review your implant size options.
How Does Transaxillary Breast Augmentation Work?
Step 1 — Consultation and Assessment
Your surgeon evaluates your breast anatomy, skin quality, chest proportions, and goals. Implant type, size, and profile are selected based on your body and desired outcome.
Step 2 — Anesthesia
Transaxillary breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Step 3 — Incision Placement
A small incision is made in the natural crease of the armpit, keeping the scar hidden and completely off the breast.
Step 4 — Creating the Implant Pocket
Using a small endoscopic camera for precise visualization, the surgeon creates a pocket beneath the pectoral muscle. This submuscular placement supports a natural slope and helps conceal the implant edges.
Step 5 — Implant Placement
The implant is guided into position through the armpit. Saline implants are filled once in place; silicone implants are positioned and centered. Symmetry between both sides is carefully checked before closing.
Step 6 — Closing and Recovery Setup
The incisions are closed, and a supportive surgical bra is applied to reduce swelling and help the implants settle into the correct position.
Transaxillary Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline
Days 1 to 7 — Initial Healing
Swelling, tightness, and mild soreness across the chest and underarms are expected during the first week. A supportive bra is worn, and overhead arm movement is kept limited. Most patients take about a week off work.
Weeks 2 to 3 — Early Recovery
Swelling gradually subsides and comfort improves. Light daily activities resume, though lifting and upper body exercise remain restricted.
Weeks 4 to 6 — Return to Activity
Most patients gradually return to normal exercise, including upper body activity, by week 4 to 6, as cleared by their surgeon.
Months 3 to 6 — Final Results
The implants settle into their natural position — often described as “drop and fluff” — and the final shape becomes apparent. The small underarm scar continues to fade over this period.
Benefits of Transaxillary Breast Augmentation
- No scars on the breast or areola — the only incision is hidden in the armpit
- Natural-looking results with the implant placed beneath the muscle
- Works with both saline and silicone implants
- Precise, controlled pocket creation with endoscopic guidance
- A discreet option for women who want to keep the breast completely scar-free
- A quick outpatient procedure with a predictable recovery timeline
To see the kind of results possible, browse our breast augmentation before and after gallery.
Transaxillary Breast Augmentation in Huntington Beach
If you are in Huntington Beach or the surrounding Orange County area and considering transaxillary breast augmentation, look for a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in endoscopic, scar-free-breast techniques. A thorough in-person evaluation — covering your anatomy, skin quality, and goals — is the most important step before any surgery. Choose a surgeon who will walk you through realistic expectations, show you real before and after results, and provide a clear, transparent treatment plan and pricing. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tuan Tran to find out if transaxillary breast augmentation is right for you, or contact our Huntington Beach office with any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Transaxillary Breast Augmentation
Can I get silicone implants with the transaxillary approach, or only saline?
Both. Saline implants are inserted empty and filled once in place, and silicone implants can also be placed transaxillary by an experienced surgeon using endoscopic technique.
Does the armpit scar show when I raise my arm?
The incision sits in the natural fold of the armpit, where it is well concealed. As it heals, it becomes increasingly difficult to notice, even with the arm raised.
Do the results look and feel natural?
Yes. With the implant placed beneath the muscle and positioned using endoscopic precision, the results are natural-looking and symmetric.
How much does transaxillary breast augmentation cost?
Cost depends on your implant choice and individual plan. You will receive a personalized quote after your consultation, and financing options are available.
Can I breastfeed after transaxillary breast augmentation?
Because the approach avoids incisions on the breast and around the areola, it generally has minimal impact on the ability to breastfeed. Discuss your plans with your surgeon.
How long do breast implants last?
Modern implants are durable but are not considered lifetime devices. Many last well over a decade, though some patients eventually choose revision or replacement.
When can I return to exercise after transaxillary breast augmentation?
Light activity resumes within a couple of weeks, and most patients return to full exercise, including upper body workouts, by 4 to 6 weeks as cleared by their surgeon.
What if I also need a breast lift?
The transaxillary approach adds volume but does not lift the breasts. Patients with significant sagging may need a breast lift, which uses different incisions — your surgeon will advise the best plan.
