Modified delphi technique to identify management of aesthetic breast augmentation: will we reach a consensus?

Abstract

Background: Breast augmentation is a common operation. Evidence has grown with experience and long-term studies, but variation in practice exists. The authors detail the existing practices of a group of surgeons for primary and secondary aesthetic breast augmentation.

Methods: Seventy-two plastic surgeons with a specialist interest in aesthetic breast surgery were asked to participate in the survey about aesthetic breast augmentation. A 54-point online survey was given, covering demographics about the surgeon and practice, implant choice and perioperative technique, use of emerging evidence and surgical techniques, preferences about secondary surgery, and opinions about topics of controversy.

Results: All 72 surgeons completed the survey. Their mean age was 57.6 years, 56.9% had been in surgical practice for over 20 years, and 88.9% were performing more than 50 primary breast augmentations per year. The most commonly used measurement for implant selection was breast width, the most common implant type was silicone (81.9%), and volume range was 250 to 350 cc (86.1%). A total of 36.1% of surgeons use anatomic implants in more than half of their cases. Opinions were divided about postoperative return to work, use of insertion funnel, and acellular dermal matrix.

Conclusions: Multiple factors affect clinical outcome in primary and secondary aesthetic breast surgery. A few well-established techniques have gained common acceptance, but opinions are more diverse for difficult, complicated, or challenging scenarios. This survey helps clarify the decision-making process of expert surgeons with an interest in aesthetic breast surgery.