Why would you need a mesh in a breast augmentation procedure?

Normally a biologic mesh would only be needed in some sort of breast revision.  Highly unlikely that it would be needed on a first time case.Best of luck!
Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Hi Ella_Lee! Thanks for your question.  First off, it is not common for patients to need any sort of mesh during a first time breast augmentation procedure (primary BA).  A mesh, either synthetic (silk) or biologic (human or porcine tissue) is typically used for women who have thinning of the tissue after already having an implant placed in the breast.  A mesh can be used as a foundation for the implant while protecting the underlying tissue and providing an added layer of support.  A mesh is typically used during reconstruction procedures and capsulectomies.  For any additional questions, I would consult with a plastic surgeon for additional information.  Best of luck! 

Hi,
Mesh is almost never indicated for primary breast augmentation. It is mainly used after cancer reconstruction or very complicated revision surgery.
You should get your surgeon to explain the need for this in your case.
Regards, Dr Steve Merten, Sydney, Australia

I can't imagine any reason to require mesh for a routine breast augmentation procedure.  If you needed a breast lift or a breast reconstruction, I could see the possible need for mesh.  Mesh is expensive stuff, so I try to avoid it if I can.

It depends what you mean by mesh. If it is a synthetic or non-absorbable material, I would highly advise against the practice. That said, biologic materials (called acellular dermal matrix or ADM) made of human or in some cases animal skin are less likely to reject and cause long term problems.ADM is usually reserved for more complicated cases where the breast lift or implant needs additional support.

Some surgeons are using absorbable mesh as a means of stabilizing a mastopexy (breast lift).
If your surgeon is recommending a lift with your breast augmentation, they probably plan on using it to help stabilize the lift.

Usually surgeons use an internal support as a last measure to prevent "bottoming out". This is usually done with some type of biological tissue rather than a synthetic mesh.

Dear Ella_Lee,

On a first-time breast augmentation, there really is no indication to place biological mesh.  These are usually used for revision surgery.  They are also expensive and can increase very slightly the chance of infection.  I hope this has been helpful.
Robert D. Wilcox, M.D.

It is very uncommon to use any type of "mesh" or "extra tissue" during a primary breast augmentation, meaning the first time a patient has had implants placed. It is typically used to provide extra support in situations where a revision surgery is required for visible rippling due to thin tissue, implant malposition (implant falling out into the armpit or down low on to the upper abdomen), or symmastia ("uniboob").
Good luck!

I reserve mesh or ADM insertion for revision in which a reconstruciton of the fold or pocket is necessary and didn't work out after previous surgery.  I have not used it in primary augmentation.