Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via a Transaxillary Approach Is a Safe Procedure in Patients With Breast Augmentation

Abstract

Introduction. Breast augmentation with implants is a common cosmetic procedure. Some endoscopic thyroid procedures can pose a risk of damage to the augmented breast. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of transaxillary gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy in patients with augmented breast. Materials and Methods. Between January 2009 and December 2010, 120 patients underwent endoscopic thyroidectomies. Of those, 6 patients had previously undergone breast augmentation. Augmented breasts were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively in terms of shape and stability. Results. All patients were female, and the mean age was 40.8 years. All patients received breast augmentation with silicone cohesive gel 2 to 10 years prior to thyroidectomy. Postoperatively, the authors found that there were no changes to the breasts in terms of anterior–posterior projections and internal angles. The augmented breasts remained stable. Conclusions. Endoscopic thyroidectomy via a transaxillary approach is safe and effective for patients who have undergone silicone breast implant augmentation.