Macrolane™ complications after breast augmentation: treatment and prevention

Abstract

Macrolane™ (Q-Med AB, Uppsala, Sweden), an injectable preparation of stabilised hyaluronic acid-based gel of non-animal origin (NASHA-based gel), is used for breast augmentation. Here, we describe how our experience of changing injection techniques for NASHA-based gel reduced the rate of complications and increased successful treatment of any remaining complications. A total of 320 patients were treated with NASHA-based gel injected through a single injection site as multiple or single deposits, with or without ultrasonographic guidance. Complications were reduced when injecting the gel into the space between the deep fascia and pectoralis muscle, or in the submuscolar plane or into the pectoralis muscle, using a single injection technique under ultrasonographic guidance. Complications such as lumps were easily treatable with aspiration or hyaluronidase injection. One woman experienced a mild infection, which was resolved using antibiotics. Our clinic’s experience shows that when using our preferred injection technique, complications are reduced for this effective and minimally invasive treatment for breast augmentation.