Traditional breast augmentation appears to be on the decline – as the latest cosmetic surgery reviews show down 27 percent in its popularity here in the UK along with a smaller, down two percent in North America (where, at the same time, breast implant relocations increased nine percent). That said, what is commonly referred to as the “breast job” remains the top surgical procedure both here and across the pond, which perhaps speaks to the growing interest in achieving “aesthetic harmony” – a movement identified in a new report published by the non-profit organization American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Along with the desire for subtle enhancements that maintain a harmonious figure, patients are now “choosing procedures that offer natural results, enhancing their overall body proportions,” it states.
That’s one reason why plastic surgeons seem excited about its arrival Mia Femtechtouted as the first injectable and biocompatible implants, designed to achieve a subtle yet significant one-to-two cup effect.
“Mia Femtech not only offers a very natural appearance, but also offers a myriad of benefits to the patient,” she says. Dr. Paul Bunwell – Consultant plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon. These include “shorter treatment time, no requirement for general anesthesia, very low postoperative pain and only a small, hidden scar in the armpit.” This is due to the biocompatible implant itself as well as the “revolutionary local anesthetic technique” used to place it, adds the leading breast augmentation and breast enlargement specialist. “For me, this procedure represents a new paradigm in breast aesthetics.”
Explaining how the procedure works, consultant plastic surgeon Dr. Adrian Richards – one of the first in the UK to offer Mia Femtech at its London clinic – reveals that “the breast tissue remains attached to the chest wall and the implant simply nestles into the breast tissue” using a “no-touch” technique. “By protecting the tissue, the breast remains intact in form and function, which greatly minimizes the complication rate.” He adds that implants can also last a little longer, advising patients to have a scan after 12 years and then every other year thereafter to monitor the best time to repeat the procedure.
What about the cons? Patient selection is key, Dr. Richards continues, as “not everyone will be a good candidate for this procedure.” Dr Banwell agrees, noting that it would suit someone looking for breast contouring with body-proportional results, while those looking for a larger one-to-two cup size difference would be better suited to a traditional augmentation. Additionally, “patients with thin breast tissue or visible breast droop are often not suitable,” he adds.
Ultimately, it’s important to know that “injectable implants” are still a surgical procedure. “While the benefits associated with Mia Femtech are significant and the reduced operating time is impressive, this is still surgery and there are still anatomical risks,” says the UK- and US-trained plastic surgeon and founder of The Soni Clinic, Dr. Ash Soni. “Patients should ensure they consult with a board-certified surgeon and undergo a thorough evaluation to determine their suitability for the procedure,” he advises. The technique — which he notes has been used for some time in other markets — “requires considerable experience to achieve optimal results due to limited visualization during the procedure,” meaning it’s imperative to work with someone in a clinical setting equipped to handle any potential complications.
And, as Dr Banwell points out, along with the innovation and effectiveness of surgery can come snap decisions that can be driven by trends – which all experts see as a red flag. “Therefore, it is important for patients to thoroughly consider their long-term goals and expectations before considering any procedure.” Surgery should never be about what’s out or in, traditional or trending. rather, a considered choice unique to individual motivations and circumstances.
