Have We Really Shifted to an Evidence-Based Practice? A Qualitative Analysis of Primary Breast Augmentation.

Abstract

Background: Primary breast augmentation remains the most frequently performed aesthetic surgery worldwide. Advances in this surgery have been incredible, not only from a surgical technique point of view but also since the appearance of new technologies and the better understanding of the interactions between the patient, the breast implant, the usual bacterial flora, and surgical maneuvers. However, there are still several instances of surgical procedure or postoperative medical indications that differ remarkably from one surgeon to another and may even be totally opposite. Due to the lack of a clinical practice guide for performing a primary augmentation mastoplasty, it is important to compare surgeon's procedures and decisions with scientific evidence.

Methods: An anonymous survey composed of 25 multiple choice questions was designed to assess current practice in primary breast augmentation among active members of the Argentinian Society of Plastic Surgery. In January 2020, it was distributed via email. The results of the surveys were compiled by 2 independent reviewers and contrasted with current medical evidence.

Results: A total of 146 surveys were completed by members of the Argentinian Society of Plastic Surgery.

Conclusion: Many differences were found in the behavior of the surgeons surveyed, as well as a lack of correlation between the evidence based on medicine and the usual medical practices or indications. These results should serve as the basis for the realization of a clinical practice guide from a scientific society of plastic surgeons.