Are you dissatisfied with the way your breast implants sit unnaturally high or look too round? Many women struggle with achieving natural-looking results from traditional breast augmentation techniques, leaving them self-conscious about their appearance. The frustration of visible implant edges, unnatural movement, and that “stuck-on” look can make you regret your decision to enhance your breasts. Dual plane breast augmentation offers a sophisticated solution that combines the benefits of both submuscular and subglandular placement, creating beautifully natural results that move and feel like your own breast tissue.

What Is Dual Plane Breast Augmentation?

Dual plane breast augmentation is a technique where breast implants are placed under the pectoral muscle at the upper and mid-portion of the breast, while the lower part of the breast implant is left uncovered by the muscle. This technique requires creating a pocket for the breast implant, both under the muscle and in the breast tissue. Dr. Jonov places either silicone or saline implants directly behind the breast or behind the pectoral muscle.

This advanced breast augmentation dual plane technique represents a significant evolution in cosmetic breast surgery available to women. By strategically positioning the implant partially under the pectoralis major muscle and partially behind the breast tissue, surgeons can achieve optimal aesthetic outcomes for a wider range of patients across Bellevue, Kirkland, and surrounding communities. The technique allows for better implant coverage in the upper breast while maintaining natural breast shape and projection in the lower portion.

Benefits of Dual Plane Placement

The dual plane breast augmentation technique offers numerous advantages that make it an increasingly popular choice among patients from Bellevue. This method provides superior aesthetic results while minimizing common complications associated with traditional placement techniques practiced throughout Western Washington.

Natural appearance and feel represent the primary benefits of dual plane placement for Bellevue residents. The partial muscle coverage creates a smooth transition from the chest wall to the implant, eliminating visible implant edges and creating a more natural breast contour. This technique also prevents dual plane breast augmentation animation deformity, where implants move unnaturally with muscle contractions, ensuring your breasts maintain their natural appearance during physical activities. Patients from Bellevue have reported that their breasts feel softer and move more naturally during physical activities.

Many patients believe that silicone implants look and feel more natural. When combined with the dual plane technique, these implants provide exceptional results. This also reduces the risk of capsular contracture, as the muscle coverage provides an additional protective layer over the implant.

Contact Us

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jonov or with questions about Dual Plane Breast Augmentation at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery serving Kirkland, Bellevue & Seattle, WA.

    Best time to contact?
    AnytimeMorningAfternoonEvening

    Sign up for email specials?
    YesNo

    Who is a Good Candidate? 

    • Women with mild to moderate breast ptosis (sagging): The dual plane technique is especially beneficial for women whose breasts have started to droop due to aging, weight changes, or breastfeeding. By partially lifting and augmenting in one procedure, many patients can avoid a separate breast lift.
    • Patients with thin breast tissue or minimal natural volume: Women with a slender frame or naturally small breasts often achieve more natural and balanced results with dual plane placement, since it provides added coverage in the upper pole while allowing the implant to project naturally in the lower breast.
    • Mothers and women after significant weight loss: Changes from pregnancy, nursing, or weight fluctuations can leave breasts with reduced fullness and stretched tissue. The dual plane method restores youthful shape and volume without creating an unnatural look.
    • Patients with breast asymmetry or unique anatomy: Women with tuberous breasts, a constricted breast base, or uneven breast shape benefit from the versatility of this approach. Dual plane augmentation allows surgeons to address these concerns while creating symmetry and softness.
    • Women seeking long-lasting, natural-looking results: Patients who want an enhanced breast contour that complements their body type often find this method produces results that look and feel more natural than traditional placement techniques.
    • Those in good overall health: Like all surgical candidates, women should be in stable health, free from serious medical conditions that increase surgical risks, and cleared to undergo anesthesia in accredited surgical facilities.
    • Women considering future pregnancies: Patients planning to have children should discuss timing with their surgeon, since pregnancy can impact long-term results. Many choose to delay augmentation until after they’ve completed their family.

    Before & After

    The Consultation Process

    Your dual plane breast augmentation consultation at our Lynnwood facility, conveniently serving Bellevue and Kirkland-area patients, begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your breast anatomy and a discussion of your aesthetic goals. At your consultation with Dr. Jonov, he will want to understand your goals and concerns. This will help him gauge the best surgical technique and procedures. After this, he will want to know your medical history and conditions. Finally, he will physically examine you and your breasts to determine if you are a candidate for dual plane placement breast augmentation.

    During the consultation, Bellevue-area patients will discuss implant options, including size, shape, and material. Your surgeon will explain how the dual plane technique affects implant selection and help you understand what results you can realistically achieve. Many practices serving Bellevue and Kirkland use 3D imaging technology to provide visual simulations of potential outcomes.

    Medical history review includes discussion of previous surgeries, current medications, and any health conditions that might affect surgery or recovery. Your surgeon will explain the surgical process, recovery timeline, and potential risks specific to dual plane breast augmentation performed at our Lynnwood facility serving the Bellevue area.

    Surgical Procedure Details

    Procedure Timing & Setting: Dual plane breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia at our JCAHO-accredited surgical facility in Lynnwood, typically taking one to two hours. The procedure is considered outpatient, meaning patients return home the same day. Breast lift surgery, when combined, also falls within this timeframe under similar anesthesia.

    Incision Placement Options: Your surgeon selects the most appropriate incision based on anatomy, implant type, and patient preference. Common approaches include:

    • Inframammary fold (breast crease): The most widely used, offering excellent control and discreet scarring.
    • Periareolar (around the nipple): Useful for patients who require adjustments in areola size or position.
    • Transaxillary (armpit): A hidden-scar technique favored by some patients, though less commonly used.

    Creating the Implant Pocket: The procedure involves carefully forming a pocket beneath the pectoralis major muscle. Depending on whether a Type I, II, or III dual plane is planned, the surgeon releases portions of the lower muscle attachment with precision. This modification allows the upper implant portion to remain supported by muscle, while the lower portion sits naturally behind the breast tissue.

    Implant Placement & Adjustment: Once the pocket is prepared, the implant, silicone or saline, round or shaped, is inserted. The surgeon then makes detailed adjustments to positioning, symmetry, and projection. The goal is a natural-looking result that enhances fullness and balances the patient’s figure, especially for women in the Bellevue area.

     

    Implant Options and Choices

    Saline vs. Silicone Implants: Both saline and silicone implants can be used successfully in dual plane breast augmentation. Many surgeons across Bellevue favor cohesive silicone gel implants due to their natural texture, durability, and lower chance of visible rippling compared to saline. However, saline implants remain an excellent option for patients who prefer a smaller incision and are comfortable with a slightly firmer feel.

    Profiles and Projections: Implant profile refers to how far the implant projects from the chest wall in relation to its base width. In dual plane augmentation, this factor is especially important.

    • Moderate profile implants often create balanced, natural curves for women with wider chest dimensions.
    • High-profile implants are frequently chosen by Eastside patients seeking more noticeable projection and roundness while preserving proportional breast width.

    Gummy Bear Implants: As the most advanced option available, gummy bear implants (form-stable cohesive gel implants) are known for maintaining their shape even if the shell is compromised. Women choosing these implants in Bellevue consistently remark on the natural slope, feel, and longevity of their results. They also offer a lower risk of folding or rippling. Explore gummy bear implant options for more details.

    Shape Considerations:

    • Round implants remain the most common selection for dual plane augmentation in Bellevue and Kirkland. They deliver fullness in both the upper and lower portions of the breast and adapt well if the implant shifts.
    • Anatomically shaped implants (often called “teardrop” implants) may be recommended for women seeking a more subtle, sloping contour, especially when combined with dual plane placement to correct anatomical challenges such as asymmetry or a constricted breast base.

    Customizing the Choice: Implant selection is not one-size-fits-all. During the consultation, patients review size, shape, profile, and implant material with their surgeon, ensuring the final decision reflects their body type, lifestyle, and long-term goals. The dual plane technique allows these options to be maximized for both aesthetics and functionality.

     

    Recovery and Healing Timeline

    • First 48–72 hours: Most discomfort occurs during this period, but is controlled with prescribed pain medication.
    • 3–5 days: Many patients transition to over-the-counter pain relievers as soreness decreases.
    • 5–7 days: Patients in Bellevue can return to light desk work.
    • 1–2 weeks: Most resume normal daily activities, though heavy lifting is still restricted.
    • 4–6 weeks: Exercise and strenuous activities can usually be reintroduced with the surgeon’s approval.
    • Swelling: Peaks around day three, then steadily subsides over several weeks.
    • Final results: Implants settle into place over three to six months, revealing natural-looking contours.

    Dual Plane Breast Augmentation Results

    Dual plane breast augmentation results showcase the technique’s ability to create natural-looking breast enhancement. Patients from Bellevue achieve improved breast shape and volume while maintaining natural breast movement and feel. The partial muscle coverage ensures long-term aesthetic stability and reduces complications.

    The technique excels at creating natural cleavage and breast projection without the “stuck-on” appearance sometimes associated with traditional augmentation methods performed elsewhere in Western Washington. Upper pole fullness appears gradual and natural, while the lower breast maintains its soft, natural contour that Eastside patients desire.

    Long-term dual plane breast augmentation results demonstrate excellent aesthetic longevity for patients across King County. Ultimately, 62% of today’s breast augmentation patients choose silicone over saline. The muscle coverage protects against visible rippling and implant malposition, while the partial glandular placement maintains natural breast dynamics. Most Bellevue and Kirkland patients report high satisfaction with their results years after surgery.

    Before and After Expectations

    To help patients in Bellevue understand what to expect from dual plane breast augmentation before and after, it’s better to see before and after transformations. Initially, breasts will appear high and swollen, with the upper part looking fuller than the lower part. This “high-riding” effect will diminish as muscles relax and implants settle into place.

    The visible results of a breast reduction will be immediate. However, it may take 6 months or longer for nipple sensitivity to return. The settling process, often called “drop and fluff,” occurs gradually over several months. During this time, implants descend into their intended position while breast tissue softens and adapts to the new volume. Eastside patients notice progressive improvement in breast shape and feel during this period.

    Final results from dual plane breast augmentation before and after cases show natural breast contours with appropriate upper pole fullness and lower pole projection. The breasts move naturally with body position changes and feel soft to the touch. Scarring fades significantly within the first year, becoming barely visible for most Bellevue-area patients.

    Cost Considerations

    The cost of dual plane breast augmentation varies based on the surgeon’s expertise and facility fees. This specialized technique may cost more than traditional placement methods due to increased surgical complexity and operating time at our Lynnwood surgical center serving the Bellevue area.

    At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery, the cost of breast implants starts from $4995. This cost does not include the prescription medication and medical clearance. When evaluating cost, consider the long-term value of superior aesthetic results and reduced revision rates associated with the dual plane technique performed by Dr. Craig Jonov at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery.

    Choosing Your Surgeon

    When considering dual plane breast augmentation, selecting a surgeon with the right qualifications and experience is critical. Board certification in plastic surgery is the first step, but proven expertise with the dual plane technique ensures safer surgery and more natural results. Patients in the Bellevue area benefit from choosing an experienced specialist.

    Dr. Jonov brings over 20 years of experience and has performed thousands of breast augmentation procedures in his fully JCAHO-accredited surgical facility in Lynnwood. His before-and-after gallery showcases consistent, natural results from dual plane augmentation procedures. Reviewing these outcomes can help you understand what to expect and confirm his expertise with this specialized technique.

    Beyond credentials and results, communication matters. The best surgeons take time to explain every step of the procedure, answer questions thoroughly, and make sure patients feel confident in their decision. Dr. Jonov is known for his individualized approach, ensuring each patient receives care tailored to their goals.

     

    Schedule Your Consultation

    To begin your journey toward dual-plane breast augmentation, schedule a comprehensive and complimentary consultation with Dr. Jonov at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery. Our Lynnwood location is conveniently located about 40 minutes from Bellevue. Contact us today at 425-775-3561 or schedule online.

    Come prepared with questions about the dual plane breast augmentation technique and how it applies to your specific situation. Bring photos showing your desired breast appearance, and be ready to discuss your medical history and lifestyle factors that might affect surgery and recovery at our state-of-the-art facility.