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What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation? What Is the Procedure Like?

Lam Thu Ha
Lam Thu Ha
Asked: 26/03/2026

I have heard many people mention transaxillary breast augmentation, saying that this method does not leave scars on the breasts, so the results look very natural. I would like to ask the doctor what transaxillary breast augmentation is, what the specific procedure involves, and what advantages and disadvantages it has compared with other incision approaches.

Hello, the doctor understands that when researching breast augmentation methods, many women often wonder what transaxillary breast augmentation is and whether it is as safe and effective as advertised. This is one of the modern breast augmentation techniques commonly applied at major cosmetic hospitals thanks to its advantages of hidden scars, minimal invasiveness, and natural-looking breast shape. Below, the doctor will help you fully understand the endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation method, including its principles, advantages and disadvantages, procedure, and suitable candidates—based on medical knowledge and practical experience in aesthetic breast surgery.

What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation?

Transaxillary breast augmentation is a surgical method of placing breast implants through a small incision (about 2–3 cm long) located in the natural fold of the armpit. This discreet location helps completely conceal postoperative scars and ensures high aesthetic value.

What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation? What Is the Procedure Like?
Endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation discreetly conceals scars with medically aesthetic results after 3 months

Unlike incisions made under the breast fold or around the areola, the technique of endoscopic breast augmentation through the axillary incision uses specialized endoscopic equipment with a high-resolution camera (currently Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital applies a 4K endoscopic system) to allow the surgeon to observe breast tissue structures, blood vessels, and nerves in detail. As a result, the process of creating the implant pocket is performed with absolute precision, minimizing tissue damage and ensuring maximum safety for patients.

The method of endoscopic breast augmentation via the axillary approach is highly regarded because it does not invade the mammary gland tissue, therefore it does not affect the ability to breastfeed in the future. In addition, the breast implant can be placed either under the muscle or above the muscle depending on the thickness of glandular tissue and the individual’s anatomy, helping create fuller breasts that remain soft and natural.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Endoscopic Transaxillary Breast Augmentation

Advantages:

  • No scars on the breasts: The incision is located under the armpit, so the scar is hidden, making the breasts look completely natural when wearing spaghetti-strap clothing or bikinis.
  • Safe and minimally invasive: With the application of 4K endoscopic technology, surgeons can clearly observe the breast anatomy, helping avoid blood vessels and nerves and thereby reducing swelling, bruising, and postoperative pain.
  • No effect on the mammary glands: Surgery via the axillary incision does not interfere with breast gland tissue, therefore women can still breastfeed normally after breast augmentation.
  • Natural and long-lasting results: The implants are placed precisely in the created pocket without displacement, and once stabilized, the breast shape becomes soft and moves naturally.
  • Quick recovery time: With modern microsurgical technology at Gangwhoo, patients can resume light activities after 3–5 days and fully recover in about 3–4 weeks.

Disadvantages:

  • Technically complex: Endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation requires surgeons with high expertise and advanced endoscopic surgical experience; otherwise, there is a risk of implant misplacement or incorrect pocket dissection.
  • Longer surgical time compared with other incision approaches (usually about 120–150 minutes) due to the meticulous endoscopic manipulation and high precision required.
  • Higher cost compared with traditional methods due to requirements for advanced technology, equipment, and surgical expertise.

Procedure for Endoscopic Breast Augmentation via the Axillary Approach

At Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital, the procedure for endoscopic breast augmentation via the axillary approach is performed according to medical standards with 6 steps:

What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation? What Is the Procedure Like?
Full, soft, and naturally shaped breasts after 3 months
  • Step 1: Examination and consultation

The doctor evaluates glandular tissue, skin elasticity, and chest frame to determine the appropriate implant shape, size, and placement position.

  • Step 2: General health assessment

Patients undergo blood tests, blood pressure measurement, cardiovascular examination, X-ray imaging, and other checks to ensure they are eligible for surgery.

  • Step 3: Measurement and marking of the surgical site

The surgeon determines the precise incision location in the axillary fold and outlines the breast pocket that will be dissected.

  • Step 4: General anesthesia

The entire breast augmentation process is performed under anesthesia, ensuring the patient experiences no pain – no fear – absolute safety.

  • Step 5: Endoscopic surgery
What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation? What Is the Procedure Like?
Implant inspection is the key to achieving perfect breast results after surgery

The surgeon uses Harmonic or Plasma surgical devices to dissect soft tissue and create the implant pocket with the assistance of the 4K endoscopic system, then places the breast implant (Nano Chip, Ergonomix, Arion, or autologous fat) into the predetermined position.

  • Step 6: Incision closure and postoperative care

The incision is closed with aesthetic absorbable sutures, followed by specialized compression bandaging and monitoring in the recovery room. Patients can be discharged the same day or stay for 24 hours depending on their condition.

Suitable Candidates for Transaxillary Breast Augmentation

The method of endoscopic breast augmentation via the axillary approach is suitable for the following individuals:

What Is Transaxillary Breast Augmentation? What Is the Procedure Like?
Breast enhancement with modern microsurgical techniques ensures beautiful breasts without visible scars after the procedure
  • Women with small, flat, asymmetrical, or mildly sagging breasts.
  • Individuals who want surgery without visible scars on the breasts and prioritize high aesthetic outcomes.
  • Individuals with intact mammary glands who have never undergone previous breast surgery.
  • Women after childbirth and weaning who want to improve breast shape naturally while maintaining the safety of the mammary glands.
  • Clients who meet health requirements and do not have chronic diseases or blood clotting disorders.

The doctor recommends that before deciding on breast augmentation, you should choose a reputable facility with a specialized plastic surgeon, sterile operating rooms, and modern equipment systems.

At Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital, the endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation technique is performed exclusively using Harmonic scalpel, Plasma surgical device, 4K endoscopy, and microsurgical robotic arms, helping streamline surgical manipulation, reduce tissue trauma, accelerate recovery, and achieve the most natural results.

If you are planning to undergo transaxillary breast augmentation, you should visit Gangwhoo directly to receive a consultation and examination from specialized breast plastic surgeons. Each breast shape requires a personalized solution, and with modern technology and premium materials such as Nano Chip, Ergonomix, Arion micro-textured implants, or autologous fat, the doctor believes Gangwhoo will help you achieve full, soft, and naturally attractive breasts as expected.


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