Expert Opinions on Breast Fillers
Featured Experts
Dr. Kelly Killeen, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California Dr. Johnny Franco, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Austin, Texas Dr. Georges Kaado, a board-certified physician in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Despite the increasing skepticism about facial fillers, their use in body areas continues to gain traction. Hyaluronic acid fillers, along with biostimulatory options such as Sculptra, are increasingly being used in hands, buttocks, knees, and even breasts. However, the use of breast fillers remains contentious, with varying opinions among medical professionals regarding their safety and appropriate application.
We sought insights from Dr. Kelly Killeen, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California; Dr. Johnny Franco, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Austin, Texas; and Dr. Georges Kaado, a board-certified physician in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on this contentious topic.
“The Long-term Effects of Breast Fillers Remain Uncertain”
As stated by Dr. Kelly Killeen
Women have long sought ways to enhance their breasts without resorting to surgery. Regarding the use of injectable fillers in the breasts, we are in uncharted territory regarding potential outcomes. The risk of cancer and the impact on breast cancer screening are unknown. Additionally, the qualifications of those administering these injections are a concern. In many states, providers do not need medical training to perform filler injections, raising significant safety concerns when dealing with a body part with a higher cancer risk.
There are instances of individuals injecting biostimulatory fillers into the breasts without proper follow-up. We’ve observed in facelift patients that Sculptra, which stimulates collagen production, can leave residual effects after its breakdown. This raises questions about potential complications for patients who may need future breast surgeries.
Patients frequently ask about hyaluronic acid fillers for breast augmentation. While these might be theoretically less problematic due to their temporary nature, predicting aesthetic outcomes is challenging. In Korea, such products are already available, offering a potentially safer and more sensible option, especially for those who want larger breasts temporarily, such as during their 20s. However, the tendency of hyaluronic acid to migrate means that while small amounts might yield satisfactory results, larger volumes are unlikely to match the outcome of implants.
Cost is another significant factor. Implants or fat grafting can be as or more cost-effective than multiple syringes of fillers. People often prefer fillers due to a fear of surgery, often influenced by untrained providers. I frequently hear, “It’s legal in other countries,” but this doesn’t guarantee safety. In such cases, oversight by a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial.
“The Demand for Breast Fillers is Expected to Grow”
According to Dr. Johnny Franco
There is a clear trend toward non-implant breast enhancement. The combination of Sculptra with energy-based devices for skin tone and texture improvement is on the rise. For breasts, this combination is excellent for skin quality but not for volume. It’s used on patients who’ve had implants but have lost weight, resulting in ripples. This also applies to using Renuva as a breast filler, beneficial for scar issues and contour irregularities from augmentations, mastectomies, or mastopexies, but not a direct substitute for implants.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are sometimes used for minor nipple deformities, but using them for volume is prohibitively expensive due to the large quantities required. It’s like buying a luxury car and replacing it annually. With Renuva, patients can spread out costs, building on existing tissue with permanent fat that allows for gradual additions. Concerns arise from social media showcasing Sculptra results with excessive dilution and large volumes, often leading to disappointing results within months.
New breast filler options are on the horizon. Promising developments abroad and a product slated for 2024 market entry will offer larger volumes, potentially providing significant enhancements with fewer syringes. This could shift the discourse on breast fillers and pressure companies to innovate.
“Fillers Provide a Customizable, Natural-Looking Enhancement”
According to Dr. Georges Kaado
I’ve used injectable fillers in the breasts for about a decade, currently combining Sculptra with Renuva for immediate and long-lasting results. Sculptra’s initial effect from dilution water is absorbed, followed by collagen-building effects that enhance skin quality. Renuva takes months to show effects but is theoretically permanent, resulting in subtle, gradual, and customizable augmentation.
I avoid Radiesse in breasts due to mammogram detection concerns. Patients are advised to inform their providers about fillers for tailored cancer screening, such as ultrasounds or MRIs. Ideal candidates are those averse to surgery and ineligible for fat grafting due to low body fat, with realistic expectations and moderate enhancement goals. For those with minimal breast tissue, implants are more suitable.
Costs can range from $20,000 to $30,000, with some spending $100,000. While expensive, implants need replacement every 10 years, and breast filler complications are rare.
Conclusion
Doctors have long used injectable fillers off-label, with breast injections raising unique concerns, especially regarding cancer screenings. Achieving implant-like volume with current products is costly. Instead, breast fillers offer nuanced enhancements, primarily improving skin quality. Consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential. Given the rising popularity and demand for breast fillers, new products specifically marketed for this purpose are likely to enter the U.S. market soon.
