Hydrogel-Filled Mammary Prosthesis

Abstract

Introduction:

The silicone breast implant controversy and the moratorium on the use of silicone-gel-filled breast implants in the U.S., Canada, and France has led to a search for substitutes for silicone-gel implants that are safe, pliable, and still firm enough to hold its shape. Hydrogel is being evaluated as an alternative to silicone gel for filling breast implants.

Materials and Methods:

Eighteen hundred ninety hydrogel-filled breast implants were inserted into patients in France and Italy between 1992 and 1993. The postoperative results of these procedures were reviewed.

Results:

Twelve implant ruptures occurred at the time of insertion secondary to too small an incision and lack of prewarming of the implant. Two ruptures went unnoticed and were satisfactorily resolved with a revision of the first procedure. One capsule contracture occurred within one year. Visual results according to patients and surgeons were satisfactory. The palpable results are less favorable than silicone-gel implants, but better than saline-filled implants.

Discussion:

Hydrogel is biocompatible. The breakdown products of the implant filler, if they migrate outside the shell, should not be toxic. Because hydrogel is a biomaterial filler to which water is added to reach an equilibrium point, it mimics the consistency of living tissue.

Conclusions:

Hydrogel appears to be a favorable substitute for silicone gel.