What does “dual plane” mean for the position of the breast implants during breast augmentation?
“Dual plane” means “two layers”. With regard to the position of the breast implants, ‘dual plane’ in breast augmentation means the position under the pectoral muscle, but only partially.
The upper 2/3 of the implants are covered by the large pectoral muscle, while the lower 1/3 is unprotected by the pectoral muscle in the fatty tissue or under the mammary gland.
During surgery using the ‘dual plane’ technique, plastic surgeons therefore cut through the lower part of the large pectoral muscle. This is where the muscle compartment gap exists.
This method is the most common form of submuscular (under the pectoral muscle) breast augmentation. It is simple and quick to perform.
A disadvantage with Dual Plane
A disadvantage can arise in very slim women if the breast implants can easily be felt below the muscle gap described. However, this is generally not visible.
Breast implants completely under the muscle
With the complete submuscular position, in contrast to the ‘dual plane’ position, the lower part of the pectoral muscle with the anterior sheath of the pectoral muscle (rectus sheath) and part of the anterior saw muscle is lifted. In this form of breast augmentation, the breast implants are therefore also covered by protective tissue in the lower third.
