What do you want to know about Macrolane?

ML: Tell me about Macrolane?

Dr. PT; Macrolane is the first hyaluronic acid gel injection indicated for volume restoration including shaping of the breasts and correction of body asymmetry. It is also used to treat depressed scars and post liposuction concave deformities. Although officially launched in the UK and Ireland earlier this year, it had been trialled in Japan for the previous two years with about 200,000 patients receiving treatments. It is apparent that no major problems were encountered with the product.

ML: Where does Macrolane come from?

The process is based on previous Q-Med patented NASHA technology. This means it is of non-animal origin and very pure. The manufacturing process is similar to the dermal filler Restylane. Macrolane is further cross-linked to make it have a long durability in the body. It carries a minimal risk of transmission of infectious substances. The demand for body shaping treatments is rapidly growing due to the increased availability of less invasive, non-surgical techniques.

ML: Why is Macrolane so popular?

Market research has shown there to be a significant number of women who would like to adjust the shape of their breasts in a natural, non-permanent way, which does not involve major surgery. These women are usually hesitant about undergoing general anaesthesia or being left with a scar. With Macrolane, the procedure is short and requires only local anaesthetic and minimal time away from work or after-work activities.

ML: How is Macrolane performed?

Dr. PT: The Macrolane procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia in a clean room used for minor surgical procedures. The procedure varies in time depending on the quantity of gel injected. Normally it takes about 20mins and most people inject 100-120mls per breast in one session. The patient can return a few weeks later if more is required

ML: What should the patient expect after a treatment with Macrolane?

Dr. PT: The results are instant. Some patients experience a little pain for a few days and it is advisable to bring along a bigger sized sports/support bra to wear for the first week. The breasts may appear harder for the first few weeks. The doctor may ask you to take prophylactic antibiotics for a few days. During the first week after the treatment you should avoid strenuous exercise or any activity that could put pressure on the treatment area.

ML: How long does Macrolane last?

Dr. PT: Macrolane reduces to 50% of its size in 18months and is designed to be topped up after a period of a year. Usually each individual treatment programme will include a yearly top-up as required to maintain optimal treatment results.

ML: Does Macrolane affect the efficiency of mammograms and / or breast tissue?

Dr. PT: Women who are considering breast shaping with Macrolane can be assured that the implant will not adversely affect the efficiency of future mammograms and/or the breast tissue itself. One clinical study evaluated patients after Macrolane injection for breast augmentation and concluded that mammograms from these patients were easy to evaluate. A second study showed it had no effect on MRIs.

ML: Is there anything else a patient should know about this product?

Dr. PT: Breast cancer is a relatively common disease and a Macrolane patient can develop concurrent problems. In order to screen out possible cancers initially, doctors advise and enforce the following protocol.

Patients are checked before the procedure for evidence of breast asymmetry, breast volume and nipple height.

All patients are checked for evidence of breast cysts, nodules and fibroadenomas.

Patients 35 and above with a DIRECT family history of breast cancer are referred for breast ultrasound

All patients 40 and above requires a breast mammogram

ML: Have you seen any Macrolane problems to date?

Dr. PT: Mostly minor problems. I have seen three patients out of 150 with small Macrolane lumps that required aspiration. However, I feel every new lump has to be treated with individual respect. I think it is a wonderful product and it will be here for many years to come

March 23 2009 | Cosmetic Surgery | No Comments »