The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) has reported that plastic surgeons across the UK are advocating for an immediate prohibition on the injection of synthetic dermal fillers into breast tissue.
BAAPS maintains that there is “no justification whatsoever” for the administration of dermal fillers in breast augmentation, characterising the practice as ‘high-risk’ and of limited therapeutic or aesthetic benefit. The association’s stance is supported by the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) and the patient safety organisation Save Face.
The association cites significant risks associated with breast filler procedures, including infection, tissue disfigurement and the potential to obscure early detection of breast malignancies. Reported complications include severe mastitis, abscess formation requiring surgical intervention, filler migration, chronic pain, interference with lactation. Of particular concern is the development of fibrotic scar tissue that may conceal tumours, according to BAAPS.
Although the injectable dermal filler Macrolane was withdrawn in 2012 following safety concerns, BAAPS notes that comparable products continue to be administered. The Association further highlights that such procedures are not confined to medically qualified practitioners, and regulatory oversight of treatment settings remains inconsistent, exacerbating potential risks to patient safety.
Plastic surgeon Ms Elaine Sassoon, on behalf of BAAPS, commented, “The injection of synthetic fillers into breasts carries unacceptable risks – from infection and deformity to the potential masking of breast cancer. In the presence of safer and more effective alternatives, there is simply no place for this practice in the UK. We are calling for a ban.”