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.