Imperfections de résultats des implants mammaires

The non-perfect results of breast implants (i.e. preexisting asymmetries, skin wrinkling, implant displacement, anatomical implant rotation), sometimes temporary in nature, can induce some aesthetic doubts into the patients that might have implications for the patient-plastic surgeon relationship. Preexisting asymmetries (i.e. chest wall, nipple-areola complex and breast mound) considerably influence the final aesthetic result of breast augmentation. Thus, such asymmetries along with their related, even more pronounced, potential postoperative ones should be discussed with patients during the preoperative period. Skin wrinkling is closely related with filler material and implant texture. We believe that the recent, cohesive silicone gel-filled implants, which are of rough texture, might be associated with fewer incidences of skin wrinkling than other implants. Implant displacement, either upwards or downwards, could occur even many years after the operation. Capsular contracture, initial malposition and/or erroneous incision are the main causes of displacement. Anatomical implant rotation seems to be related to the mechanical and geometric features of the implant and to a reduction in adhesion factors. In these cases, implants should be replaced. We must understand that some properties of the implants are not well-known as is also the case of the implant long-run comportment inside the human body. These facts are probably responsible for the appearance of non-perfect, undesirable results. Plastic surgeons should be aware of such “inconveniences” and advise their patients.