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New Methodology Reduces Complications and Additional Surgery After Breast Augmentation, ASPS Study Says

SAN ANTONIO - A new methodology for breast augmentation with saline-filled breast implants significantly reduces local complications and additional surgeries, according to a study presented today at the ASPS/PSEF/ASMS 71st Annual Scientific Meeting in San Antonio.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 219,800 women had their breasts augmented in 2001. The study methodology drastically reduced the reoperation rate to 10 percent for the 287 patients, or 6.5 percent of the 573 implanted breasts, in the study. Previous studies indicated reoperation rates of 20 to 25 percent.

Building on current techniques, the process designed by ASPS Member Leroy Young, MD, and author of the study, addressed the three most common reasons for reoperation - changing the breast implant size, improving the "natural feel" of the breast and minimizing capsular contracture.

"One of the most common reasons for reoperation after breast augmentation is the patient decides to change the size of the implant," said Dr. Young. "This new methodology helps women understand how the implants will look on them before they decide the size they want."

To ensure patients chose the right breast implant size, they were encouraged to see how different breast sizes would look on their body type rather than requesting the cup size the patient believed they wanted. Using an extensive photo library, patients were asked to locate photos of women who matched their body type and assess which photograph had the breast size the patient desired. This allowed the patients to visualize how they would physically look after augmentation.

Also, because women often wear the wrong bra size, patients were measured to determine their pre-operative cup size. (Seven in 10 women in the U.S. wear the wrong size bra, according to Bali, an intimate apparel company.)

Addressing the second most common reason for reoperation - improving the "natural feel" of the breast - physicians in the study used only smooth implants. Compared to textured ones, the smooth implants wrinkle less underneath the skin, giving the breasts a more natural feel.

To decrease capsular contracture, an unpredictable complication that occurs when naturally forming scar tissue around the implant tightens and squeezes it, physicians participating in the study followed a "no-touch" technique. The no-touch method included meticulously rewashing surgical gloves before handling any instrument and the implant, only the head surgeon touching the implant, using a special Teflon cutting board and immediately placing the implant underneath the muscle. All of these procedures helped ensure that no foreign materials attach themselves to the implant, which could inflame the surrounding tissue and cause complications.

"Taking these steps to ensure successful breast augmentation is a major win for women, who can now initially receive the right breast size for their body and know that their risk for local complications is significantly reduced," stated Dr. Young. "Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is an important step that patients need to take. Only a physician who understands the patient's desired look and follows operative guidelines thoroughly can ensure a successful surgery."

"Saline-filled breast implants have always been safe, which is supported by more than 30 years of clinical experience throughout the plastic surgery community," continued Dr. Young. "However, breast implants are like any other medical device, such as knee or hip replacements, and will realistically require occasional reoperation."

About ASPS

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. Representing more than 7,000 physician members, the Society is recognized as a leading authority and information source on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS comprises more than 94 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. Founded in 1931, the Society represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Contact ASPS

Media Relations | 847-228-9900 | media@plasticsurgery.org