What Is The Internal Bra?
The internal bra is a layman’s term to describe the GalaFLEX mesh which may be used in breast surgery. The GalaFLEX mesh is made out of a material called P4HB. This material is similar to suture material, and it dissolves over time, but before dissolving it promotes collagen to form around it. This collagen remains to ultimately improve the strength of soft tissues. The unique property of this mesh is that it’s shaped similar to the underwire of a bra cup, hence it gets the name internal bra.
Is The Internal Bra Safe And FDA Approved?
The mesh has a general FDA approval for soft tissue support for plastic and reconstructive surgery. Specifically, in terms of breast surgery, it is considered “off label” use. This is true for all synthetic meshes for cosmetic and reconstructive purposes. Nevertheless, mesh is widely used in breast surgery, and I consider this product safe to use in breast lifts, breast revisions, and breast implant-based surgery. The product is absorbed by the body over time, and thus will have minimum reaction to it.
How Long Do The Results Last?
The actual GalaFLEX mesh product typically dissolves within 18 months. However, while the mesh product is still in the body, collagen builds up over time. This translates to more strength of the soft tissue, and ultimately the excess collagen can produce improvement in the longevity of the results. There’s no set timeframe about how long the results last. But from my experience using it, the relationships between the nipple and fold seem to be holding up at the 1-to-2-year mark. Also, I feel there’s less bottoming out. It is important to know, that all the soft tissues stretch over time.
What Are The Benefits?
Some of the benefits of the internal bra include:
- It’s dissolvable
- The support of the lower fold of the breast
- It provides superior fullness
The goal of any breast case is to maintain shape over time. This product can help with maintaining stability. It is commonly used in breast lift and breast augmentation with lift cases. Additionally, the GalaFLEX mesh is frequently used in breast revision, including pocket revision and capsular contracture.
Contact A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center
Are you interested in learning more about the internal bra? Do you want to know if you are a candidate? If so, contact A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center. Our office in Orland Park serves patients all over the Chicagoland area and beyond.
Learn more about Breast Enhancement Procedures offered by Dr. Samir Shah:
