title: Conical polyurethane implants: an uplifting augmentation.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Polyurethane-coated conical implants were introduced by Silimed (US distributor: Sientra, Santa Barbara, California) in 2008 and offer an alternative to round or anatomically shaped implants. By their design and volume distribution, they naturally create central volume and give a reasonable fullness to the upper pole while lifting some ptotic breasts, thus avoiding the need for classical mastopexy.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The authors discuss the advantages of conical implants as an alternative to conventional silicone implants for women with breast ptosis.
  
  
  METHODS
  In the 2-year period between December 2010 and December 2012, a consecutive series of 302 women underwent implant-based breast surgery procedures (236 primary augmentations, 59 revisions, and 7 mastopexy-augmentations) with conical polyurethane devices. Implant volumes ranged from 225 to 560 cc, with low- to medium-profile devices predominating. No extra-high-profile implants were used. Only 1 patient had a drain inserted on completion of a revision augmentation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There were no infections (0%) and no wound dehiscence (0%). Four cases required reoperation (1.3%). Patient satisfaction scores were universally high (average, 9.94/10). There have been no capsular contractures to date, but follow-up is short.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The modern conical, polyurethane implant has many advantages over the conventional round or anatomically shaped implants and offers patients an ideal compromise between volume, natural upper pole fullness, and a lift without mastopexy scars.
authors: Dr Georgeu is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Springfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom, and Honorary Senior Lecturer in Plastic Surgery at the Post Graduate Medical Institute, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom.
authors: Garrick A
authors: GA
authors: Georgeu
authors: James D
authors: JD
authors: Frame
authors: James D
authors: JD
authors: Frame
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D019928:Breast Implantation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018427:Breast Implants; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011140:Polyurethanes; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D012086:Reoperation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D011140:Polyurethanes
keywords: breast augmentation; conical implants; mastopexy; polyurethane implants