What are the Benefits of Dual Plane Breast Augmentation?

In addition to increasing volume, dual plane breast augmentation can offer an “internal breast lift” using an implant. This can help some patients avoid a classic breast lift if they only experience minor drooping. In general, dual plane breast augmentation can offer:

Enhanced volume and fullness
More youthful positioning in the breasts with reduced sag
Greater cleavage and more sensual breast contours
Reduced scarring and shorter incisions when compared to breast augmentation
Natural-looking breast shape
Greater support for the lower breasts, reducing the risk of recurrent sag in the future

Dr. Joe has written about the dual plane breast augmentation technique in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, a national academic publication that details the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery. You can read the article by following the link below:

Dual-Plane Breast Augmentation for Minimal Ptosis Pseudoptosis

Dual-Plane Breast Augmentation for Minimal Ptosis Pseudoptosis

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I had a fantastic experience with Dr. Joe and his staff! As a runner and after having three kids, there was not much left to my chest. I knew I wanted a natural look for my frame and minimal downtime for recovery. I found through research that Dr. Joe was rated as one of the top surgeons in the state, and read about his quick recovery procedure. His reviews and pictures speak for themselves! At my consult, Corky made me feel comfortable right away. She was a fantastic listener and helped me identify the right size for my body.

I decided to go over the muscle with 390 cc silicone implants. My recovery was even better than I expected, and I only needed pain meds for the first couple of days. I did have a reaction to my antibiotic, but the nursing staff immediately helped me get a steroid and I started feeling better right away. 2 weeks post-opp and I’m already loving how everything looks and fits in my new bras!

Patient Completing Recovery Exercises 24 Hours After Dual Plane Breast Augmentation

Who is a Candidate for Dual Plane Breast Augmentation?

Dual plane breast augmentation is usually most successful for patients interested in enlarging their breast size while also wanting to address mild drooping (breast sag). After discussing your goals with our plastic surgeons, they will be able to recommend the best treatment option to fully address your concerns and attain your desired results. For some patients, a breast lift with implants may be a better solution to achieve a more voluptuous, “lifted” appearance in the bust.

How is Dual Plane Breast Augmentation Performed?

Of our cosmetic surgery patients, 17 percent of breast augmentations are done with a dual-plane approach to lift breast tissue, elevate the nipple-areolar complex, and release a tight breast crease. This is technically a breast enlargement procedure — our plastic surgeon calls it the “internal lift.” It creates a breast pocket above and below the muscle (hence the term “dual”) where an implant is inserted. By releasing the breast attachments on top of the muscle, the breast slides upward around the implant. This technique avoids the more extensive scars of an external lift, and can be especially useful in fixing early sagging.

Prior to dual plane breast augmentation, you and your surgeon will work together to select the most ideal breast implant type, implant size, incision location, and technique to achieve your desired contours. The dual-plane technique can avoid external incisions on the breasts, except for a small incision within the breast fold. All incisions are placed in discreet locations whenever possible, allowing scarring to blend in with the natural fold of the breast crease. During the procedure, the implant will be placed both over and under the pectoral muscle to achieve superior implant positioning. Our plastic surgeons will walk you through every step of your procedure so you know what to expect during the dual plane breast augmentation procedure.

What is Recovery From Dual Plane Breast Augmentation Like?

Recovery from dual plane breast augmentation is similar to the healing period typical after traditional breast augmentation surgery. Patients are usually able to return to work the day after surgery if they work from home, and a couple days later if they go into the office. More active jobs require 7 to 10 days off. Most people feel strong enough to resume light daily activities within one day. Bruising and swelling are normal reactions and should dissipate as you continue to heal. Our team strongly advises following all of your surgeon’s instructions on activity restrictions, wearing post-operative garments, incision care, etc. Exercise and strenuous activity should be avoided for 21 days.

How Long Will My Results From Dual Plane Breast Augmentation Last?

Breast implants aren’t designed to last forever, but dual plane breast augmentation can enhance the quality of your breast implant results in numerous ways. The procedure fills out the lower poles of the breasts to achieve an attractive, teardrop-like contour, as well as reduces the risk of rippling in the upper breasts to provide a more natural-looking outcome. With dual plane breast augmentation, other complications — such as your implants “bottoming out” — may also occur less frequently.

Patients often enjoy their breast enhancement for many decades, and some women don’t feel the need to ever replace or exchange their implants. However, if you’d like to upgrade your implants to newer devices or if you need to address a complication, Dr. Gryskiewicz and Dr. Luck also perform breast revision if necessary.

Will I Have Noticeable Scars From Dual Plane Breast Augmentation?

Yes, the majority of breast procedures typically leave scarring to some extent and the dual plane technique is no exception. Your anatomic indicators and unique needs will determine the most appropriate incision for your surgery, but possible locations include around the perimeter of the areolas, from the middle of the areola down to the natural breast crease, or in an anchor-shaped pattern along the fold of the breasts. Luckily, scars from breast augmentation are easily hidden underneath a bra or swimsuit. In addition, scarring can lighten over time especially with proactive measures like:

Taking good care of your incisions according to your surgeon’s instructions. This allows optimal wound healing, increasing the likelihood that your scars will fade to some degree over the years.
Using physician-grade skin care products and scar lightening creams once incisions are fully healed.
Avoiding smoking during the recovery period, as smoking can impede healthy blood flow and interrupt the healing process.

Your plastic surgeon can give you a better idea of how your post-op scars are likely to appear after confirming your treatment plan in a consultation. Our before-and-after photos can also provide a better understanding of what you can expect with regard to scarring.

How Much Does Dual Plane Breast Augmentation Cost?

The cost of dual plane breast augmentation in Minneapolis is generally much more affordable than undergoing breast augmentation in coastal cities of the U.S. While your surgeon cannot give you a personalized quote until your goals are discussed at your consultation, factors that generally influence your cost estimate include the type of breast implants you choose and how long your surgeon requires to complete your procedure. If you would like more information on a general price range for dual plane breast augmentation, please call our office to speak with one of our Patient Care Coordinators.

Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz and Dr. John Luck are highly trained and knowledgeable Minneapolis plastic surgeons who offer a variety of modern breast procedures to enhance your contours. Whether you’re interested in rejuvenating your breasts after menopause, aging, pregnancy, or other factors, they can work with you to develop the best possible treatment plan. Contact Dr. Gryskiewicz and Dr. Luck at our Minneapolis office today for more information, or if you’re ready to book an appointment.