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Experience with 326 inflatable breast implants
L M Rheingold1, R P Yoo, E H Courtiss
1Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis, Mass.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Inflatable breast implants can deflate, a complication observed in 6.1% of cases, often presenting with pain and requiring surgical replacement. Long-term data shows implants remain soft, with deflation occurring years after initial placement.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Inflatable breast implants have been available for 27 years with mixed reception.
- Concerns exist regarding their durability and potential for deflation.
- Advocates cite natural feel and low capsular contracture rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present clinical experience with inflatable breast implants.
- To specifically analyze the incidence and characteristics of implant deflation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 173 patients with 326 inflatable breast implants.
- Analysis of patient records for augmentation (84%) and reconstruction (16%).
- Longest follow-up: 14.5 years; shortest: 3 months.
Main Results:
- 20 out of 326 (6.1%) inflatable breast implants deflated.
- Deflation was associated with new onset pain and breast size reduction.
- Surgical exploration revealed leaks, often with a "white fold" at the defect site.
- Implants remained soft, with Baker grades ranging from I to IV.
Conclusions:
- Deflation is a notable complication of inflatable breast implants.
- Surgical replacement is straightforward, with prompt intervention recommended.
- Long-term softness is maintained, but deflation risk persists over time.