Why Is the Baker Classification Inadequate for Classifying Silicone Implant Fibrous Capsules?

Abstract

Baker's clinical classification is adopted as the gold standard for grading complications related to silicone implants. Despite being widely used for this purpose, the classification has several limitations, highlighting subjectivity, reproducibility, and interobserver agreement. In this technical report, we aim to present the reasons for the inadequacy of the Baker classification for breast implants and the main factors contributing to false-negative results using recent theories of surface tension of fluids and gel bleeding. We also present an alternative classification proposal using magnetic resonance imaging of the breasts.