A Preliminary Report on the Transthelial Approach to Breast Implant Exchange

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Surgery
• Breast Augmentation

Background:

• Augmentation mammoplasty is a common procedure, with implant exchange often leading to noticeable scarring.
• The transthelial approach offers potential advantages for scar concealment and direct implant access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a single surgeon's preliminary experience with the transthelial approach for breast implant exchange.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction, scar outcomes, and complication rates associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing breast implant exchange via the transthelial approach.
• Data collected included patient demographics, surgical history, and post-operative outcomes.
• Six patients who underwent the procedure between 2017 and 2020 were identified.

Main Results:

• All patients reported satisfaction with scar concealment, nipple-areolar sensation, and vascularity.
• One patient experienced recurrence of capsular contracture, managed non-operatively.
• No instances of implant failure, infection, malposition, or reoperation were reported.

Conclusions:

• The transthelial approach appears to be a viable option for breast implant exchange in select patients, offering superior scar concealment.
• Further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up is recommended to confirm these preliminary findings.