Mesh Use in Aesthetic Breast Surgery: Different Strokes for Different Folks

Goals/Purpose: Aesthetic breast surgeries with implants encompass two of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed in the United States. The use of soft tissue support with mesh and/or scaffolds has gained increasing popularity. There is significant variation in techniques and outcomes. Although there are benefits and limitations to each type of mesh, emphasis on technique and how to maximize the use of mesh in various situations is minimally available. We describe our techniques using synthetic absorbable scaffolds, with video and picture examples of various scenarios encountered in cosmetic implant-based breast surgery. We will discuss some pearls from a large single surgeon experience encompassing over 900 mesh cases in 4 years.

Methods/Technique: Instructional videos and techniques to help simplify and navigate the plethora of options for performing complex aesthetic breast surgery aided with mesh.

Results/Complications: Using a large enough piece of mesh to support a desired outcome is key. Consideration of and techniques involved in placing mesh inside versus outside the implant pocket is demonstrated.

Conclusion: Demonstrating the use of complex techniques will help surgeons looking to integrate the use of scaffolds in their practice, and lead to improved outcomes with mesh in implant-based aesthetic surgery.