Sub-Fascial Breast Augmentation
Sub-fascial breast augmentation in Scottsdale with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Howarth to enhance volume, shape, and contour with refined precision. Each procedure is thoughtfully planned to align with your body, your goals, and the way you want to look and feel.
Experience the exceptional care and personalized touch of a board-certified female plastic surgeon who prioritizes your well-being every step of the way. Discover why Dr. Ashley Howarth stands out as one of the best plastic surgeons in Arizona for results that look and feel beautifully natural.
Sub-Fascial Breast Augmentation in Scottsdale
Sub-fascial breast augmentation is a modern approach to breast enhancement that places the implant beneath the fascia—a thin, strong layer of connective tissue over the chest muscle—rather than fully beneath the muscle itself. For women who want a natural look with less animation or movement distortion, this technique offers a balanced alternative to traditional submuscular placement.
Dr. Ashley Howarth is a Mayo Clinic–trained, board-certified plastic surgeon known for her meticulous planning and elegant results. Sub-fascial placement requires a nuanced understanding of anatomy and careful technique to ensure smooth transitions, graceful movement, and long-term implant support. Each procedure is tailored to your specific tissue, goals, and lifestyle.
What Is Sub-Fascial Breast Augmentation?
Sub-fascial breast augmentation involves placing the implant beneath the pectoral fascia—the thin but supportive layer that covers the chest muscle—rather than below the muscle itself. This technique creates a natural slope and appearance while avoiding many of the drawbacks associated with full submuscular placement, such as animation deformity or longer recovery.
The fascia provides support for the implant, helping to maintain position and contour over time. Dr. Howarth carefully evaluates breast tissue thickness, skin elasticity, and overall body frame to determine if sub-fascial placement is the best choice for your anatomy and aesthetic goals. It’s an ideal option for women with active lifestyles or those seeking soft, stable results with minimal disruption.
Reasons Women Choose Sub-Fascial Breast Augmentation
REDUCE MOVEMENT DISTORTION
Unlike submuscular placement, sub-fascial implants are less likely to visibly move or flex when the chest muscles are engaged—ideal for athletic women or those bothered by animation deformity.
ACHIEVE NATURAL LOOK AND FEEL
This technique offers a softer, more natural transition at the upper pole of the breast. The fascia supports the implant without the tightness sometimes seen with submuscular augmentation.
FIND A BALANCED ALTERNATIVE
For women who don’t want their implants directly beneath the skin (subglandular), but also want to avoid full submuscular placement, the sub-fascial plane offers a refined in-between solution.
OPTIMIZE FOR ACTIVE LIFESTYLE
Because the pectoral muscle is left intact, recovery can be smoother and strength less affected. Many patients return to activity more comfortably compared to traditional techniques.
Sub-Fascial Breast Augmentation Consultation Process
A Thoughtful, One-on-One Conversation
Your consultation with Dr. Howarth is designed to feel personal, thorough, and unhurried. Together, you’ll explore your goals, body type, and preferences to determine whether sub-fascial placement is appropriate. Dr. Howarth will explain the differences between implant planes, assess your natural tissue coverage, and walk you through the process in clear, approachable terms.
During the visit, detailed measurements and anatomical mapping help guide implant selection and surgical planning. You’ll have time to view implant sizers, discuss incision placement, and explore the look and feel you’re envisioning. Every question is welcomed—this is a collaborative space built around your comfort and clarity.
Dr. Howarth believes the best outcomes start with mutual understanding. From the first conversation, her role is not to persuade, but to guide—offering thoughtful recommendations and a calm, reassuring presence every step of the way.
From consultation to confidence
Selecting a Plastic Surgeon with a Commitment to Excellence
CAREFUL PLANNING
Dr. Howarth begins with a detailed consultation and precise anatomical assessment. Your breast tissue, fascia strength, and lifestyle are carefully considered to ensure the sub-fascial technique is appropriate for you. Every aspect of the plan is shaped by your goals and your vision.
SURGICAL EXPERTISE
Sub-fascial placement requires delicate technique and an advanced understanding of implant behavior over time. Dr. Howarth uses a refined surgical approach to position the implant smoothly beneath the fascia for natural-looking contour, softness, and stability—without unnecessary trauma to the muscle.
SUPPORTIVE RECOVERY
Most patients experience less post-operative tightness or muscle soreness compared to submuscular augmentation. Dr. Howarth provides personalized aftercare instructions, detailed timelines, and ongoing support throughout your healing process. You’ll feel cared for, informed, and confident at every stage.
Begin Your Transformation
Meet your surgeon
Ashley Lynn Howarth, MD, FACS
Dr. Ashley Howarth is a board-certified plastic surgeon who completed her training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Mayo Clinic Arizona. Prior to that, she trained in general surgery at Texas A&M Baylor Scott & White, and earned her medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine. With nine years of combined surgical training, few surgeons possess the level of academic experience as Dr. Howarth.
She has quickly become one of Arizona’s most in-demand plastic surgeons, recognized for her surgical precision, natural aesthetic, and obsession with detail. Her clinical interests include cosmetic surgery of the face, breasts, and body, and she is known for delivering results that are refined, balanced, and thoughtfully executed.
In addition to her surgical practice, Dr. Howarth serves as an Associate Professor of Plastic Surgery at Mayo Clinic, where she helps train the next generation of plastic surgeons. She also serves as the youngest board member and Member-at-Large for the Arizona Society of Plastic Surgeons, a leadership role awarded by her peers.
As a working mother of three young boys, Dr. Howarth understands the challenges that women face. Her care is grounded in empathy, honesty, and individualized attention, with the goal of helping every patient feel confident, supported, and beautifully themselves throughout the entire process.
She proudly supports the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale and sponsors their Celebrate Youth Gala each year. She also mentors young women interested in medicine and surgery by offering shadowing opportunities and career guidance, continuing her dedication to helping others grow—both in and out of the operating room.
“My life feels full and wonderful due to this transformation. I’m blessed to have had Dr. Howarth complete my surgery. Don’t wait to love your body and yourself!” – M.A.
FAQ
What is the difference between sub-fascial and submuscular placement?
Sub-fascial placement positions the implant beneath the fascia, while submuscular places it under the chest muscle. Sub-fascial augmentation may reduce movement distortion, allow for a smoother recovery, and create a softer upper breast contour for select candidates.
Am I a candidate for sub-fascial augmentation?
Ideal candidates have enough soft tissue coverage to support the implant without visible rippling or edges. Dr. Howarth will evaluate your breast anatomy, lifestyle, and preferences to determine if this technique is right for you.
Does sub-fascial augmentation feel more natural?
For many women, yes. Because the implant isn’t directly under the muscle, the breast can feel softer and look more natural—especially in the upper pole. The results depend on your tissue, implant type, and surgical plan.
Is there less recovery time with this technique?
Recovery is often described as smoother compared to submuscular placement, since the muscle isn’t manipulated. Most patients resume light activities within a few days and return to more vigorous routines in a few weeks, depending on healing.
Will my implants stay in place long term?
Dr. Howarth uses meticulous pocket creation and implant selection to promote long-term support. The fascia offers stability, and with proper planning, implants can remain well-positioned over time. She’ll also discuss techniques to reduce the risk of shifting or bottoming out.
Can I combine this with a breast lift or other procedure?
Yes. Sub-fascial augmentation is often paired with mastopexy (breast lift), fat grafting, or other body contouring procedures. Dr. Howarth will customize a plan that safely achieves your full aesthetic goals.
How does this technique compare with subglandular augmentation?
Subglandular placement sits just beneath the breast tissue, which can increase risks of rippling or visible edges in thin patients. Sub-fascial placement offers more coverage and support while still avoiding full muscle disruption—offering the best of both worlds for many women.
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