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Related Experiment Videos

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
PubMed
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.

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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:

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  • 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.