Over the years there have been many trends in breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery and breast implants, and the internal bra is a serious buzzword in the industry right now. Breast implant technology has continually evolved in line with leading research and aesthetic outcomes. By the same token, patient preferences are always in flux. Something we’ve become knowledgeable about over the decades is what post-operative complications can occur and how to manage them. Information about complications over the years has brought new trends to light. These trends include smooth silicone implants, round implants, different gels, and more.

Surgical techniques have also been refined over the years and a buzzword that has entered the breast augmentation mammoplasty industry in the past few years is the “internal bra”. Often talked about, this is a surgical technique that should be understood by patients prior to choosing their plastic surgeon in Brisbane. This blog post aims to provide information surrounding the internal bra technique. We talk about what it is, how it works, and who it can benefit. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this popular technique.

What is internal bra?

The term internal bra is heavily used in the breast surgery industry. Yet, not many people know that it refers to a myriad of different surgical techniques. “Internal bra” is actually an umbrella term including techniques intended to strengthen the lower pole of the breast. The idea of this technique is twofold. Firstly, to reinforce the inframammary fold. And secondly, to strengthen the lower portion of the breast. In tandem, this provides a more supportive foundation for a breast implant.

The most common technique used for internal bra is additional suturing. Sutures create a more secure and stable breast fold where the incision is. A rarer option used in more severe cases is the use of a surgical mesh. This mesh creates greater internal support of the breast implant. The internal bra technique can be used on breast lift mastopexy or breast reduction mammoplasty patients if they are suitable candidates to prevent breast lowering or laxity.

Why do we use internal bra?

We all know that having a strong foundation for your breast implants is a good thing. But why exactly is it so important? One of the post-operative complications that can occur in patients is implant “bottoming-out” or descending. This refers to the displacement of a breast implant, resulting in the implant sitting much lower in the breast than intended. There’s an important distinction between normal breast ptosis and bottoming-out. Breast ptosis is not a post-operative complication. It is however, caused by the patient’s natural anatomy changing over time. When breast ptosis occurs, the breast and nipple will move downward and create a low appearance. Bottoming-out on the other hand is when just the implant moves downward, and the nipple and natural breast tissue stay in place. You can read this blog post which includes a diagram of the difference between breast ptosis and bottoming-out.

Bottoming-Out

There are a few key patients who are at higher risk of bottoming-out. These include women with poor skin integrity due to genetics, significant weight loss, pregnancy, breast feeding, or general ageing. Patients who are having a breast lift mastopexy or reduction mammoplasty are also high risk. Women who have highly active lifestyles that involve lots of jumping, running, and dynamic activity are more likely to experience bottoming-out compared to those who lead a more sedentary lifestyle. Finally, patients who choose a larger implant will have a higher risk of bottoming-out due to the downward pressure on the lower-pole created by the extra weight of the implant.

The internal bra technique strengthens the inframammary fold and lower-pole of the breast to help prevent bottoming-out after surgery. The additional support can create a stronger foundation for the breast implant.

Does internal bra mean I don’t have to wear an actual bra?

The term “internal bra” can be deceptive, as it suggests that the surgical technique is a substitute for physical support. The internal bra is an extra measure intended to reduce the incidence of bottoming out and breast ptosis. However, there is no guarantee that this technique will provide enough support to prevent complications entirely. Physical support using a supportive bra or post-operative garment will play an integral role in maintaining results post-operatively and when combined with the surgical bra technique can help to ensure the patient’s desired results.

What surgeons do internal bra?

Finding a plastic surgeon in Brisbane that performs the internal bra technique involves research and consultations. You should ensure that your surgeon is experienced in breast surgery and especially breast augmentation mammoplasty. If you’re looking for a Brisbane plastic surgeon that uses the internal bra technique, contact Dr. Richardson’s rooms today to organise your initial consultation, or follow us on Instagram.