Dr. Polo, I want to have my breast augmentation done with the most advanced implant available. I have read that the Motiva® implants are the latest to come out. Can you use them for my surgery?
Motiva® is a brand of silicone-filled breast implants known for its advanced technology and innovative design. It appeared in 2004 amid a worldwide recall of some less commonly used surface-relief implants. In 2010, Motiva implants received CE marking, the equivalent of US FDA approval for the European Economic Area. They have since been approved for commercial distribution in over 80 countries.
Motiva silicone implants, however, have not yet been approved by the FDA. In the US, clinical trials with 10-year post-operative follow-up have been ongoing since 2018. Currently, only patients enrolled in these clinical trials can undergo breast augmentation or reconstruction with Motiva silicone gel-filled implants.
These innovative 6th generation implants have many advanced technological features with the potential to improve safety and aesthetic results. Probably the most important of the safety features is their nano-surface technology. Existing implants have either smooth or textured surfaces. Smooth surface implants are associated with higher rates of implant displacement and capsular contracture, which may lead to reoperation. Textured implants were designed to reduce these specific risks. However, textured surfaces are associated with higher inflammatory and immune responses, and in very rare cases, associated malignancies. By improving biocompatibility, nanosurface technology has shown evidence of reducing immune activation at the molecular and cellular level and reducing inflammation and fibrosis at the implant-tissue interface.
Additional technological safety advancements in Motiva implants include a more durable elastomeric outer shell molded into a single uniform structure instead of a patch shell. This construction has enhanced tensile strength and greater fracture resistance. Also inside the shell is a new barrier technology with a visible indicator that further eliminates the possibility of silicone leakage. Motiva implants have the option to include a micro-transponder embedded in the implant for traceability and verification of implant information through a simple, non-invasive scan.
Through ongoing public communication, the FDA has argued that currently approved silicone gel breast implants should be considered reasonably safe devices. As with all medical devices and procedures, certain risks are associated with them. Communication of these risks to patients has been strengthened in recent years. Although complication rates with currently approved implants are acceptable, we should strive for improvement.
Motiva implants have shown early evidence of lower complication rates while maintaining excellent aesthetic results. However, final conclusions should not be drawn until more long-term data from quality clinical trials are available. If the Motiva implants prove to have lower complication rates than currently approved implants and receive FDA approval, these high-tech devices will certainly command a great price. It will then be up to the consumer to decide if the added benefit is worth the higher cost.
There are already excellent options for patients interested in silicone gel breast implants. These options may improve soon if Motiva implants receive FDA approval. Choosing the right surgeon is more important than choosing the right implant among all these good options. Proper patient selection, surgical technique, and postoperative care are far more important than implant brand in ensuring an excellent outcome. A good surgeon will help you customize this great result with the implant that best suits your specific anatomy and goals. If you are interested in breast augmentation, be sure to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Polo is a graduate of University of MiamiMiller School of Medicine. He is a certified Plastic Surgeon and a partner in Miami Plastic Surgery. He has been in practice for over 20 years during which he has remained an active member of his medical staff Baptist Hospital and South Miami Hospital. Dr. Polo is dedicated to patient safety and Plastic Surgery education and has been recognized by his peers by being elected to leadership positions such as past president of the Miami Society of Plastic Surgeons and president-elect of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons . Dr. Polo is a specialist in Cosmetic Surgery of the face, neck, breast and body. His greatest expertise is in breast augmentation and moms. His practice also includes the full range of non-invasive treatments such as Botox, fillers, CoolSculpting, ultrasound, lasers and radio frequencies.
Favorite points of Dr. Polo on the island include Crandon Park Golf Course, the beach at Cape Florida Light and The Spa and Rum Bar at the Ritz Carlton.
You can email him questions at mpolo@miamiplasticsurgery.com.
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