Mia FemTech is an innovative approach in the field of cosmetic surgery, specifically tailored for breast augmentation developed by Establishment Laboratories who also make Motiva Implant. It stands out from traditional methods by being less invasive, aiming for minimal scarring and a quicker recovery time. The technique combines advanced surgical tools and technologies, enabling surgeons to perform breast augmentations through a smaller incision while maintaining precision and safety. This is just being launched in the UK and the world for the treatment of breast hypoplasia or small breasts.

How is it Performed?

The Mia FemTech procedure involves several key steps:

1. Consultation and Planning: A thorough consultation with the patient to discuss their goals and expectations. The surgeon evaluates the patient’s anatomy and determines the best approach.
2. Anaesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation to ensure patient comfort.
3. Incision: A small incision is made in a concealed area which is usually the armpit. The precise location of the incision can vary based on the patient’s anatomy and desired outcome.
4. Placement of Implants: Using specialised tools and techniques, the surgeon creates a pocket for the implant. The implants are then carefully inserted through the small incision using a special delivery device.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a surgical dressing is applied. The small size of the incision typically results in minimal scarring.

Where is the Incision, and How Big Can You Go with This?

The incision is usually in the armpit. The size of the implants that can be used with Mia FemTech depends on the patient’s anatomy and the desired result. Generally, the procedure is only for a small increase in size of about a cup size. If you would like a larger increase in breast size then traditional breast augmentation or MiniAugmentation techniques would provide the desired results.

Has This Been Scientifically Approved?

The Mia FemTech technique, like other medical procedures, has to undergo rigorous scrutiny and approval processes to ensure its safety and efficacy. It is important to verify that any medical technique or device used in the procedure is approved by relevant regulatory bodies, such as the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA. Surgeons employing Mia FemTech should be highly trained and experienced in this method to ensure optimal outcomes. Some initial studies have shown early results and these include the following: The Mia Feasibility Clinical Study was a prospective study that enrolled 100 subjects between December 2020 and April 2021. In the preliminary two-year Kaplan-Meier analysis of key events, there were no reports of capsular contracture (Baker Grade III/IV) and no ruptures (suspected or confirmed). Our recommendation when considering any new device or implant is wait until there is much more established data and research. It is still very early stages for the Mia Femtech device which is why we have not started to offer this until there is much more established data.

How is it Different from a Traditional Breast Augmentation?

Mia FemTech differs from traditional breast augmentation in several key ways:

1. Incision Size: Mia FemTech uses a significantly smaller incision compared to traditional methods, which typically require larger incisions to insert the implants. Although if you are considering small implants we would usually be able to perform this through a 3-4 cm incision.
2. Recovery Time: Due to the less invasive nature of the procedure, patients often experience a faster recovery time with Mia FemTech. This means less downtime and a quicker return to daily activities. There are limitations with the procedure in terms of the size and plane of surgery with the FemTech implant.
3. Scarring: The smaller incision used in Mia FemTech results in less noticeable scarring, which is in the armpit. The armpit incision is not commonly used in the UK due to the more difficult creation of a good pocket for the implant.
4. Technology and Tools: Mia FemTech uses a diamond shaped implant which provides more projection with a smaller size. There has not been much comment about the potential risks with this shape such as rotation or flipping.

What are the Risks?

As with any surgical procedure, Mia FemTech carries potential risks and complications, although they may be reduced compared to traditional methods due to the less invasive approach. Potential risks include:

1. Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or within the breast tissue. Proper surgical techniques and post-operative care are crucial to minimise this risk.
2. Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to feel firm or look distorted. The risk is present with any breast augmentation procedure.
3. Implant Rupture or Leakage: Implants can rupture or leak over time, which may require additional surgery to replace them.
4. Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent.
5. Asymmetry: There is a risk that the breasts may not be perfectly symmetrical after surgery, which may necessitate further corrective procedures.
6. Anaesthesia Risks: As with any surgery involving general anaesthesia, there are risks related to the anaesthesia itself, including allergic reactions and complications from being under anaesthesia.
7. Unknown Risks: Given this is a new device and procedure there are many unknowns. There is very little long term data on this so it is too early to comment if there will be additional risks associated with this procedure.

Conclusion

Mia FemTech represents a significant advancement in the field of breast augmentation, offering patients a less invasive option with potentially reduced recovery times and minimal scarring. However, like any surgical procedure, it is not without risks. The technique is in its very early stages and there is not too much scientific evidence published to report safety information. In view of this, I would caution patients seeking this as a first choice procedure. You should book a consultation with us to find out if the traditional or MiniAug breast enhancement options may be safer more established procedures for your desired results.