Evaluation of the effects of silicone implants on the breast parenchyma

Abstract

Background: Despite being the cosmetic procedure most performed worldwide, there are still few objective measurements of postoperative volumetric analysis of breast augmentation available in the literature. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate volumetric changes in the breast parenchyma after the placement of silicone implants in the subglandular plane. Methods: Thirty-four women were randomly allocated to the intervention group (n = 24), who underwent breast augmentation in the subglandular plane, or to the control group (n = 10), who received no intervention. Volumetric magnetic resonance imaging was performed at inclusion, and after 6 and 12 months in all participants. The non-parametric Friedman's test was used for statistical analysis. Results: There was a significant reduction in glandular volume (mean, 22%) at 12 months postoperatively in patients who underwent breast augmentation. Conclusions: Breast augmentation caused reduction in the volume of the breast parenchyma.