The Internal Bra – An Alternative To A Traditional Breast Lift Procedure

A new alternative to traditional breast lift surgery is in clinical trials and will undergo review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration later in 2014. The Orbix Breast Support System or “internal bra” surgery, as it is being referred to, addresses the most common complaint from breast lift patients; that results are temporary. The Internal Bra surgery promises results lasting up to 10 years.

The Internal Bra surgery is described as an alternative to traditional breast lift or breast reduction surgery. It is not intended to replace the need for a bra or lend a permanent “push up” look to breasts, as some media outlets have implied. However, the procedure will allow patients who would combine implant surgery with a breast lift to bypass the implants, as they are not necessary with the procedure.

The surgery places silicone sheets, designed to act as cup-like support, beneath the skin and under the breast. The silicone is then secured in place by silk thread attached to tiny surgical screws, which are anchored into rib bone. With this method, the breast tissue is supported by the silicone sheets, which will not degrade and break down in the body. Conventional methodology relies upon the skin envelope beneath the breast to provide support. The results from traditional surgery are good, but are not as long-lasting as the procedure promises, because the supporting skin will eventually stretch and sag again. There are also indications that the “internal bra” technique results in faster healing time and reduced appearance of scarring.

Results of the clinical trials performed on a very small number of patients have been positive, though there is concern among some surgeons and medical experts regarding the procedure. Foreign materials introduced into the body, as they are with the surgery, may cause inflammatory reactions. There is also concern that these materials could potentially interfere with mammogram readings, as well as a physician’s ability to properly diagnose early breast cancers. Potential complications and long-term side effects have not yet been determined, and further study and trials are being called for.