Primary breast augmentation today: a survey of current breast augmentation practice patterns

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Surgery
• Surgical Practice Patterns

Background:

• Primary breast augmentation is a common aesthetic procedure.
• Understanding current surgical techniques and preferences is crucial for practice evolution.
• The reintroduction of silicone gel implants prompted interest in their adoption rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey current practice patterns in primary breast augmentation among ASAPS members.
• To identify trends in implant type, size determination, incision location, and complication reporting.
• To assess the current usage of saline versus silicone gel implants.

Main Methods:

• Electronic survey distributed to members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
• Data collected on surgeon demographics, practice characteristics, procedure details, and complications.
• Response rate of 30% analyzed for practice patterns.

Main Results:

• Smooth saline implants placed in a submuscular pocket via inframammary incision were most common.
• Nipple sensation changes were the most frequently reported complication.
• Despite silicone gel implant reintroduction, saline implants were used more frequently by respondents.

Conclusions:

• Saline implants are currently preferred in primary breast augmentation by many ASAPS members.
• Both saline and silicone gel implants are utilized safely and effectively.
• Further assessment is needed to track future trends, with an expected increase in silicone gel implant use over time.