Enhanced Surfaces of Breast Implants May Reduce Post-Surgical Complications

Almost 400,000 breast augmentations and reconstructions are performed annually in the US and the number is increasing each year. Following surgery, about one in five women suffer from a complication known as capsular contracture. Scientists at a large research university in the UK have created an enhanced patterned surface for silicone implants to reduce the rate of complications.

Following breast implant surgery, the body reacts by forming a protective lining of scar tissue in the form of a capsule around the implant. In some cases, an excess amount of scar tissue is formed which results in the shrinkage of the capsule and a squeezing or hardening of the breast caused by the interaction of the capsule with the implant. This complication is referred to as a capsular contracture. While the cause is unknown, many surgeons use a 'No Touch’ implant insertion technique to reduce the likelihood of a complication. In its early stages, capsular contracture is commonly treated with vitamin E, certain drugs or massage, however in many cases, surgery to release or remove the capsule is necessary.

Textured, or roughened implant surfaces have previously been shown to reduce the amount of scar tissue formed around breast implants and currently, implants on the market have smooth or larger textured surfaces. Scientists at the University of Manchester have created smaller textured areas on the surface of implants and their findings indicate that these surfaces imitate the body’s own cell surfaces. It is also suggested that the smaller areas of texture create a more suitable micro environment for adherence and growth of breast tissue cells and, as a result, the likelihood of complications following breast implant surgery is reduced. More lab studies will need to be conducted prior to the clinical use of these enhanced patterned surfaces.

For further information on the findings: University of Manchester. “Breast implants could be safer thanks to cell-friendly surface.” Medical News Today. MediLexicon, Intl., 22 Mar. 2015.Web.

Use of Google Glass in Plastic Surgical Procedures

Introduced on a limited basis in 2013, Google Glass is a hands-free, computerized type of eyewear that has the potential for use in plastic surgery as well as in other healthcare fields. Surgical procedures performed using the Glass can be seen live or recorded which will provide surgeons with a wide range of possible uses and applications.

Google Glass eyewear provides the wearer with the ability to control the device using voice commands, touch or a change in head position. The live streaming option gives surgeons the capacity to augment training, join in remote consultations and virtually assist during actual procedures. Recorded procedures can enable surgeons to self-evaluate, share videos and provide surgical training. As reported in the March 2015 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASPS), additional uses may include providing quick access to medical documentation such as patient records and imaging studies. The hands-free nature of Google Glass may also help reduce the spread of infection.

As upgrades and options continue to be developed, there will be additional purposes, applications and challenges with the use of Google Glass.

High Satisfaction Rates from Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Following mastectomy, women report higher satisfaction from breast reconstruction using their own tissues, rather than from the use of implants.  While both methods provided good outcomes, a new study indicates that patients with autologous reconstruction were more satisfied with the results and with their quality of life after reconstruction surgery.

According to a study published in a recent issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ninety-two women completed a BREAST-Q survey following breast reconstruction between 2006 and 2010.  Approximately half of the women in the study had autologous breast reconstruction that was performed using “donor” flaps from their abdomen to create their new breasts and the other half received implant-based reconstruction. On a 100-point scale, the satisfaction scores for overall results were about ten to twelve points higher for autologous reconstruction than for implant reconstruction. There were no significant differences between the two methods in terms of scores for quality of life.

It is important to note several differences between the two groups. Women who chose autologous reconstruction were generally older, were more likely to have undergone radiation therapy and had received delayed reconstruction surgery. Implant reconstruction was typically performed on younger women who had a double mastectomy with reconstruction immediately following surgery.

Women have many options for breast reconstruction and a single ideal reconstruction method is not appropriate for all patients. The researchers concluded that patient characteristics between the two groups accounted for the preliminary results and that further studies are needed to evaluate the reasons for the differences in overall satisfaction rates. 

Injectable Drug Dissolves Double Chin

If you are bothered by moderate to severe excess fat under your chin or neck, your treatment options have previously been limited to a neck lift, liposuction or jawlift surgery. There is now a new, FDA approved, less-invasive, cost-effective injectable treatment option from Kythera Biopharmaceuticals. 

Over the last eight years, Kythera has been developing an injectable drug to contour submental fullness as it is estimated that about seven of ten people are concerned about their double chin. The patented formulation called ATX-101 is a pure, non-animal derived version of deoxycholic acid, a molecule that occurs naturally in the body and aids in the rupture and breakdown of dietary fat. Through a process of adipocytolysis and preferential targeting of cells with low protein content, the drug was reported to have relatively no effect on the surrounding blood vessels, nerves and muscles. Patients in the drug study received a series of treatments at intervals of one month apart and high rates of satisfaction were reported. Side effects included redness, bruising, itching, pain in the chin, nodules, numbness and burning sensations. Best results were seen on patients without advanced skin laxity.  

For people who long for a newly defined chin and jawline, it is anticipated that this new treatment option will be commercially available in 2015.  

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture, or facial rejuvenation acupuncture is a safe, natural and virtually painless, non-surgical method to increase the production of facial collagen and elastin to reduce fine facial lines and wrinkles while rebalancing the flow of energy in the body.

There are minimal (to no) negative side effects from cosmetic acupuncture. The treatments are relaxing and provide an overall rejuvenation and positive feeling in the body. The insertion of thin, fine needles along specific pathways in the body creates a number of positive physiological and visual facial effects, including:

Physiological effects:
Increased blood circulation
Improved muscle tone
Collagen and elastin production

Visual benefits:
Reduction of puffy under-eye bags
Elimination of fine lines
Lifting of eyelids
Firming of jowls
Softening of deep wrinkles
Pore tightening
Tightening of the neck
Balancing oily and dry skin
Improved skin tone and complexion

Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as an acupuncture face lift,  is typically done over a course of 10 treatments with monthly or seasonal maintenance visits. Each treatment lasts about an hour. Depending on the needs of the patient, needles are placed on the face as well as in strategic locations in the body. Needles remain in place for 15 to 20 minutes. Results are visible over several weeks and are enhanced by good eating habits, hydration and regular sleep. Although cosmetic acupuncture has been reported to be beneficial to women and men ages 20 to 70, it is recommended that treatments begin at about age 35 to achieve the best results. As with any procedure, be sure that the practitioner is a board certified acupuncturist.

Since the study of acupuncture views each part of the body as a whole, the whole body is enhanced and rejuvenated as a result of a cosmetic acupuncture treatment. Some of the benefits include a strengthened immune system, hormonal and stress rebalancing, relief from allergies, pain, headaches, insomnia and menopause symptoms and an overall rebalancing of the flow of energy.

Share your cosmetic acupuncture experiences!