Too early to give the new “internal bra” procedure the all clear

Posted: 21/05/2014

Cosmetic surgery lawyers, Penningtons Manches, share the recent concerns expressed by breast surgeons regarding the long term consequences and risks of a new “internal bra” procedure.

The “internal bra” is intended to give permanent lift and shape without the need for additional support. The procedure, which has recently received approval in the UK, involves inserting silicon cups underneath the breast tissue. The cups are held in place by titanium screws drilled into the ribs and silk ribbons attached to the cups. The procedure, which takes 45 minutes and is currently only available at Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital, London, costs in the region of £6,000. In the future this procedure may become free on the NHS for breast cancer patients and those who require breast reductions for medical reasons.

The aim of the procedure is to prevent premature sagging and is thought to be a more permanent solution than a traditional breast lift. Clinical trials have been undertaken since 2009 and, although no serious complications have been reported to date by those involved, it is too early to draw any firm conclusions on the long term risks and side effects. There are, however, some concerns about the effects the implant may have on cancer risks, problems during pregnancy and breast feeding. Those who have the implant will be monitored for at least a 10 year period.

Professor Kefah Mokbel of the London Breast Institute has raised concerns regarding the procedure commenting that the EU certification “only referred to the safety of the materials being used rather than the operation itself”.

Guy Forster, partner in the clinical negligence team at Pennington Manches, said: “We continue to deal with a number of claims relating to traditional breast lift/augmentation surgery and the consequences of those procedures. It is too early to comment on any adverse consequences that may follow on from this new procedure. Although we welcome innovation in the world of cosmetic surgery, we would continue to urge anyone who is considering such a procedure to ensure they choose a fully licensed practitioner and treatment centre.”

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