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Underfilled Breast Implants
Underfilled breast implants are one technique used by some surgeons to create softer and more
natural looking
and feeling augmented breasts.
Breast implants
have a recommended minimum and maximum fill volume set by the manufacturer and approved by the FDA and other governing agencies. Deviating from this set standard might produce some desirable results, but also comes with the potential for serious side effects.
What are Underfilled Breast Implants?
The only type of breast prostheses which can be underfilled are
saline breast implants.
These are implanted in the body empty and filled by the surgeon once in the correct anatomical position. Implants are designed with a particular and somewhat narrow fill range in mind. This recommended range is designed to offer good results in both look and feel, as well as improving
implant durability.
Changing the fill volume can be done by the surgeon to suit the needs of the patient. Purposefully filling the implant shell with less than the recommended volume is called underfilling.
Effects of Underfilled Implants
The main benefit gained from less fill volume is a softer feeling and a less rounded appearance. This suits the preferences of many patients, but also incurs considerable risk of
implant failure.
Less than recommended fill levels do not expand the implant shell adequately. This can create
wrinkling
and folding of the implant shell which is likely to be visible through the skin, especially if placed in the
subglandular
position. In addition, these folds create weak spots in the implant which exponentially increase the risk of
implant rupture
due to shell failure. Obviously, this occurrence would necessitate
implant revision
and
replacement
via a secondary surgery.
Recommendation on Underfilled Breast Implants
Certain implant types react better to underfilling techniques. Newer implant styles are particularly forgiving in their fill volume range and can offer nice aesthetics and durability when under or
overfilled.
Underfilling is likely to void any
manufacturer's
warranty,
which could prove a costly mistake if your implants rupture. Be sure to address the issue of over and underfilled implants with your
cosmetic surgeon
prior to undergoing your procedure. If they recommend the technique, make sure to understand all the risks and benefits well in advance of the surgery so that you can make an informed choice for yourself.
Underfilled Breast Implants to Breast Surgery
12/4/07 Revised 6/8/11
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