The Modern Polyurethane-Coated Implant in Breast Augmentation: Long-Term Clinical Experience

BACKGROUND: First-generation polyurethane foam-coated breast implants were associated with a low risk of capsular contracture (CC), but the risk of CC with modern polyurethane-coated silicone implants has not been established. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to determine the long-term rates of CC after primary breast augmentation with Microthane, a polyurethane-coated silicone gel implant. METHODS: A total of 131 patients (255 breasts) were evaluated in a retrospective study. Data were compiled from postoperative follow-up sessions at 2 weeks; 1, 3, 6, and 12 months; and annually thereafter. Rates of various complications, including CC, were determined. RESULTS: CC developed in 3 of the 255 implanted breasts (1.2%; Baker grade III or IV), and postoperative hematoma occurred in 2 implanted breasts (0.8%). Spontaneous CC that was not associated with other complications was observed in 1 implanted breast (0.4%). All instances of CC occurred before the 31st postoperative month. CONCLUSIONS: For patients who undergo primary breast augmentation with modern polyurethane-coated implants, the long-term risk of CC is low. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Therapeutic.