Finding it hard to decide if Polytech Replicon Microthane coated implants are a good idea?

Question

I have been for my consultation for a breast augmentation in the UK and my cosmetic surgeon who is top in the list for my area suggested I have the polytech replicon shaped microthane implants. Also known as "fuzzys" or "foam coated" she said their is less chance of capsule contracture occouring and that I would only ever need to change them if they rupture which is highly unlikely. I have since done a lot of research and see that they were banned in the US & were band in the UK in the early 90s

Jonathan J. Staiano, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Dear jellytot,There has been some controversy about the polyurethane coated implants and you are right that we stopped using them some time ago and they are not allowed to be used in the US.  However, there are some significant advantages in using them mainly around the fact that they are much less likely to go hard in the future (capsular contracture) and they are much more stable in their positioning - which is particularly important as you are considering a teardrop implant (which can rotate).I have written a blog post about them and have put the link below.  Have a look and continue to do your research because it is important that you are comfortable with the decision.  Good luck.

Tariq Ahmad, MBBChir, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hello!

Many thanks for this question.

Over the last 25 years I have used a range of implants and also seen some come and go. This has made me cautious regarding any new or latest implant or implant range. Assessing research and outcome measures is not always easy; I have used ordinary silicone gel, smooth covered implants, cohesive silicone gel, textured implants, saline filled implants and 'nano textured' implants.

The major problems in relation to breast implants are longer terms ones such as capsular contracture and rupture. Implants today are much thicker walled so rupture, certainly early on, is rare. If one accepts that contracture rates are less with textured implants then polyurethane foam implants are supertextured and are reported to have the lowest contracture rates but the technique to place them is different to that used for textured or smooth implants and so you should be confident that your surgeon is experienced with their use. 'Nano' textured implants are newer but early studies suggest that they too have a very low contracture rate.

Although the original implants were (voluntarily) withdrawn, this was because of the way the polyurethane foam was attached to the implants and what was thought to be the risks of polyurethane. Todays implants are bonded closely to the implant and so they have been back for some time now. I have been happy to advise polyurethane implants with cohesive silicone gel to of my patients. If concerned I would recommend that you discuss the range of risks and side effects of polyurethane covered silicone gel implants with your surgeon in some detail prior to going forward to surgery.

I that this information is helpful for you.

Best wishes

Gerard Lambe, MBChB · Answer

Hi Thanks for your question. The implants you mention are made by polyptych and are of a high quality. They have a couple of advantages. One is that they tend to stick in position so they are less likely to bottom out and the second is that they have got a lower incidence of capsular contracture.I use them and a number of surgeons in the UK are now also using them for about the last 5 years. They come with an insurance policy too.However if you are not sure regular textured implants will be just as good but just have a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture. Please discuss fully with your PS.best wishes

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

They were popular in the US for awhile and worked great until they fell apart after about 8 years. We no longer have them available and don't know if they have been improved. There are other excellent choices if you feel the need for a textured surface.

Finding it hard to decide if Polytech Replicon Microthane coated implants are a good idea?

Answers (4)

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