Breast Augmentation 101: The Internal Bra Technique

Breast augmentation surgery has continued to evolve, with new surgical techniques and breast implant technologies that enhance aesthetic results and offer long-lasting results. One such innovation is the internal bra, a surgical technique to provide better support and stability during breast implant placement during breast augmentation or breast implant revision surgery.

In this article, Dr Turner, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney with years of experience breast implant sugeries, will explain everything you need to know about the Internal Bra Technique, how it works, its benefits, and who might be the ideal candidate.

What is the Internal Bra Technique?

The internal bra technique is a specialized surgical approach used in breast augmentation procedures to provide additional support to the breast tissue during the healing phase. Unlike traditional methods where implants are primarily supported by the skin and surrounding breast tissue, the internal bra creates a reinforced internal structure to provide stability and support for the breast implant.

The term “internal bra” is widely used in the aesthetic breast industry, though many people are unaware that it refers to a wide variety of different techniques. These techniques reinforce two main areas: the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast) and the lateral cleavage lines (sides of breast where it meets the chest), and use a variety of different materials, like sutures and absorbable surgical mesh to maintaining breast implant position and preventing bottoming out.

How the Internal Bra Technique Works?

During a breast augmentation or breast implant revision surgery, Dr Turner will carefully create the pocket within the breast tissue to accommodate the breast implant and the internal bra material. Next, the internal bra support (sutures or absorbable scaffold), is precisely positioned within these pockets to provide structural support to the breast, followed by positioning of the breast implants into a secured pocket to ensure they remain in the desired position.

As the breasts heal following surgery, the internal bra helps maintain the newly enhanced shape and contour, providing longer-lasting support and stability to the breasts. Over time, the supportive sutures or surgical mesh integrate with the surrounding scar tissue, further reinforcing the support and the internal bra’s effectiveness.

The material Dr Turner uses in the internal bra technique may vary depending on the patient’s anatomy, and the desired outcome of the procedure. Commonly used materials include:

• Surgical Sutures:Surgical sutures are used along the breast fold and lateral cleave lines to reinforce these anatomical borders to maintain improved implant stability and minimize implant malposition. This is the most common method of internal bra technique used in Australia.
• Surgical Mesh:A biocompatible internal mesh bra, like Tiloop mesh, are scaffolds that provide durable support to the breast tissue and gradually dissolve over time, leaving behind natural tissue reinforcement.
• Capsule Modification: In breast implant revision procedures, tightening or plicating the capsule in the lateral breast pocket of breast fold with specialized sutures is an effective method to maintain breast implant position and minimize implant malposition.

The internal bra technique is performed not only in traditional breast augmentation, but also with breast asymmetry correction, breast lift with implants and revision breast implant surgery. By adding this internal scaffold, the longevity of the procedure is enhanced, helping to maintain the desired breast position for a longer period.

Benefits of the Internal Bra Technique

There are several benefits to choosing the Internal Bra Technique over more traditional breast augmentation methods:

• Enhanced Implant Stability: Internal bra breast augmentation offers support to breast implants, enhancing their stability within the breast pocket. This added support helps minimize implant movement and displacement, reducing the risk of malposition.
• Improved Tissue Support: By providing internal support to the surrounding breast tissue and capsule, the internal bra helps distribute the weight of the implants more evenly. This reduces strain on the breast tissue, potentially lowering the risk of complications such as breast tissue stretching.
• Enhanced Surgical Outcomes: With the internal bra breast implants, Dr Turner can achieve more surgical outcomes. By placing the breast implant in a stable position and supporting the surrounding breast tissue, the technique helps maintain the desired breast shape and contour.
• Reduced Risk of Revision Surgery: By minimizing implant movement and providing internal support, the internal bra technique may reduce the likelihood of complications that require revision surgery.

Risks and Complications of Internal Bra Technique?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks involved with the Internal Bra Technique:

• Infection: While rare, there is a risk of infection at the site where the mesh is inserted.
• Scarring: Patients may experience more noticeable scarring depending on the placement of the mesh and the type of incision used.
• Mesh-Related Issues: Although the materials used are generally safe, there is a possibility that the body could reject the mesh or that complications arise if the mesh doesn’t integrate well with the natural tissue.
• Cost: The Internal Bra Technique may cost more than traditional breast augmentation or lift procedures due to the specialized materials and surgical expertise required.

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.

Does Dr Turner use the internal bra technique?

Yes! Dr Turner includes the internal bra technique in all breast implant surgeries. However, the specific internal bra technique Dr Turner utilizes will depend on individual patient and implant factors that he will discuss with you during your consultation.

Who is at Risk of Bottoming Out?

A strong foundation for breast implants is crucial in preventing complications such implant malposition or “bottoming-out.” This occurs when the breast implant descends too low, causing it to sit lower than intended, while the nipple and natural breast tissue remain in place.

Patients who are at a higher risk of bottoming-out, including those with poor skin integrity, significant weight loss, post-pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Women with very active lifestyles or those opting for larger implants (>500cc) are also more susceptible due to the increased downward pressure on the lower pole of the breast. The internal bra technique strengthens the inframammary fold and lower-pole of the breast to help prevent bottoming-out after surgery.

Next Steps

If you’re considering breast implant procedure and want to know if the Internal Bra Technique is right for you, here are your next steps.

1. Schedule a Consultation: Contact us at 1300 437758 or visit drturner.com.au to book your appointment.
2. Prepare for Surgery: Follow any preoperative guidelines provided, such as avoiding certain medications and arranging for post-surgery care.
3. Plan for Recovery: Set aside time for rest and healing and arrange for assistance during your initial recovery phase if needed.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best treatment options for your individual needs.