Mia Femtech & Preserve Breast Augmentation Methods: Risks, Disadvantages, and What You Should Know Beforehand
Minimal invasive and tissue-preserving techniques such as Mia Femtech™ and Preserve™, which have recently come to the fore in aesthetic breast augmentation operations, have started to gain popularity due to advantages such as small incisions, shorter operation time, the possibility of being performed under local anesthesia or sedation, faster recovery, and less visible scars. However, as in every medical application, these methods have some limitations and potential risks. In a few decades, it will be necessary to highlight the advantages and disadvantages by comparing them.
Before diving deep into the subject, it is necessary to know the following:
Contrary to popular belief, breast augmentation surgery does not necessarily have to be performed under general anesthesia. Especially if the implant is to be placed in the subglandular plane (over the muscle and under the breast tissue), sedation may be sufficient. This application has been practiced for many years in "outpatient clinics" (centers where day surgery is performed) such as in the USA.
While the average scar length in classic methods is around 4 cm, it decreases to 2–2.5 cm in new techniques. When well-planned, the scar is placed in the inframammary fold and is almost unnoticeable.
When complications, which are undesired but expected problems of every medical procedure, develop, it may be necessary to return to the classic method.
The most important point is that only local anesthesia and short surgical time are emphasized before long-term results are seen.
High costs occur. This method, which costs surgeons serious fees especially for training, leads to a franchise logic where those who receive training then provide training for similar fees. It is thought-provoking that this process is supported by the manufacturer.
It will be useful to consider the following points before making a decision:
Disadvantages & Points to Consider
Patient Selection Limitations
These techniques have limitations depending on factors such as the condition of the breast tissue, skin elasticity, current sagging level, and anatomical structure. They may not yield the expected results in very saggy breasts or in people who want large volumes.
In addition, they may not be suitable for patients who have had previous surgery, or who have significant tissue damage or dense scar tissue.
Prosthesis Size Limits
Methods like Mia Femtech usually aim for a 1–2 size enlargement. Classic techniques may be required for larger volume implants.
In cases where very large volumes are requested, the risk of skin stretching, deterioration of aesthetic harmony, and disproportionate appearance increases.
Variability in Naturalness and Aesthetic Results
In minimal invasive techniques, the scar is less and the wound is smaller; however, variables such as the implant placement angle, subcapsular position, and the structure of the breast tissue directly affect the natural appearance.
The expectation of "fast recovery" may sometimes conflict with the time required for the result to settle and the shape to stabilize.
Risk of Complications Continues
Classic complications such as capsular contracture (hardening around the prosthesis), implant displacement, rippling, and loss of sensation can also be seen in these techniques. Although it is said to be "non-existent" so far, this is information obtained only with a limited number of cases and short-term follow-up. Observations of classic breast augmentation surgeries, on the other hand, go back approximately 60 years.
Even if local anesthesia is preferred, there may be postoperative edema, pain, and sensitivity.
Long-Term Data is Still Limited
These methods are relatively new. There are no follow-up studies of 10 years or more; existing ones are limited in number.
There is less data compared to classic techniques on issues such as revision (re-operation) and implant life.
Cost and Accessibility
Costs are higher compared to classic operations due to special devices, patented implants, and techniques requiring training.
Management of Expectations
Patients should have realistic expectations before surgery. Expectations such as "perfect," "exaggerated enlargement," and "flawless symmetry" may not always be achieved with this technique.
Candidates who want smaller volumes can usually be professional athletes or soldiers. However, the area where the prosthesis will be placed is created with a special tool; if a suitable area is not formed, the classic method must be applied. In cases such as unexpected bleeding, this method cannot be used either.
Post-Surgical Care Period and Restrictions
Even if it is minimal invasive, it is necessary to avoid some physical activities during the healing process. Although there is no clear information, this period is usually 2–4 weeks. In the classic method, if the submuscular plane is suitable, the restriction is 4–6 weeks; if the subglandular plane is suitable, it is 2–4 weeks.
As in every surgery, situations such as drainage, swelling, bruising, bandages/compression garments, and temporary discomfort may be encountered.
Conclusion
Although techniques like Mia Femtech and Preserve offer significant advantages such as smaller scars, short recovery time, and tissue protection in breast aesthetics, they are not suitable for every patient. It is necessary to manage expectations realistically and remember that long-term results are not yet known.
If you think you are suitable for a 1–2 cup enlargement, a lower projection implant, and a subglandular plane with relatively fewer scars, this can already be done with classic breast augmentation methods. Since long-term safety data has not yet become clear, it may not be correct to consider these techniques as the first option.
