Breast augmentation is the most common aesthetic procedure every year and the vast majority of patients do extremely well with the surgery. However, occasionally patients need to revise or improve the results of their breast augmentations.
One common technique for breast implant revision surgery is a procedure called an Internal Bra creation. The internal bra is used to correct the placement of the breast implant. Over time the breast implant can slide out to the side (toward the armpit) or downward (bottom out). The internal bra treats these issues by tightening the breast implant pocket so that the implant is held in the correct position. This is where the name comes from as it supports the implant internal as a bra would do externally.
The internal bra can be performed in a variety of ways depending on the specific needs of each patient. The most common method is to use special sutures internally to hold the implant in the correct placement. In special circumstances, we can use mesh (galaflex, alloderm or strattice) to reinforce the internal bra that was created to support the breast implant. This creates a belt and suspenders type repair to support the implant.
The principle behind the internal bra is that we are placing sutures and possibly mesh in the breast pocket to support the breast implant in the proper position. Since the mesh and sutures are all internal none of them are visible. In most circumstance this procedure can be performed through your breast augmentation incision (IMF or Peri-areolar). This technique limits the need for any further incisions or scarring.
It is important to understand that the internal bra is used to support the breast implant in the correct position. The internal bra does not treat an excess of skin. If patients have an excess of skin, then they may need a breast lift. When patients have a skin and soft tissue issue then that needs to be addressed with a breast lift procedure, not an internal bra. The internal bra is strictly used to correct and support the placement of the breast implant.
An internal bra can be done in conjunction with other breast enhancement procedures. It is often done as part of a breast implant exchange. It can also be done during a breast lift (mastopexy) and implant exchange. It is also occasionally done without exchanging the implants during the surgery.
Consult with your Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for an internal bra to improve the appearance of your breast augmentation, or contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.
