ML: Can you explain Macrolane?

Dr. PT; Macrolane is made from HA (hyaluronic acid) gel, which as been used in facial dermal fillers for many years. It has established documented clinical data showing its safety and efficacy in this area. The product was launched in the UK and Ireland in 2008. It had been previously trialled in Japan from 2006 with apparently 200,000 patients receiving treatments. There was no evidence of any major problems being encountered.

ML: Is Macrolane made by genetic engineering?

It is made by biotechnology. It is based on previous patented NASHA technology, of non-animal origin and very pure. Macrolane is similar to Restylane but it is further cross-linked to produce a biologically degradable gel that has a long durability in the body and carries a minimal risk of transmission of infectious substances. There is little doubt that the demand for body shaping treatments is rapidly growing with an increased availability of less invasive, non-surgical techniques, which take away the fear associated with surgery.

ML: Why is Macrolane so popular?

Market data reveals a large number of women who would like to adjust the shape of their breasts in a natural, non-permanent way, if it does not involve major surgery. Many of these women are afraid of general anaesthesia or being left with a scar. The Macrolane procedure requires only local anaesthetic and minimal time away from work or after-work activities.

ML: How do you perform a Macrolane procedure?

Dr. PT: Macrolane is carried out under local anaesthesia. The procedure is carried out in a clean environment, similar to that used for minor surgical procedures. It usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the quantity of gel injected. Most people require about 100-120mls per breast in one session, however one can return a few weeks later if more is required

ML: What happens then?

Dr. PT: The results are instant. Some patients experience a little pain for a few days and it is advisable to bring along a bigger sized sports/support bra to wear for the first week. The breasts may appear harder for the first few weeks. The doctor may ask you to take prophylactic antibiotics for a few days. During the first week after the treatment you should avoid strenuous exercise or any activity that could put pressure on the treatment area.

ML: How long does it take for Macrolane to dissapear?

Dr. PT: Macrolane is designed to be topped up after a period of a year. Usually each treatment programme costs about 1500.

ML: Will the product adversely affect the efficiency of mammograms and / or breast tissue?

Dr. PT: Patients can be assured that Macrolane will not adversely affect future mammograms and/or the breast tissue itself. One Swedish study evaluated patients after Macrolane injection concluded that mammograms from these patients were easy to evaluate. A second study showed it had no effect on MRIs.

ML: Is there anything else a patient should know?

Dr. PT: Breast cancer is a relatively common disease in Ireland and somebody with Macrolane will develop concurrent illness. In order to reduce problems and screen out pathology initially, Ailesbury Clinic advise and enforce the following protocol.

All patients are checked before hand for evidence of breast asymmetry, breast volume and nipple height.

All patients are checked for evidence of breast cysts, nodules and fibroadenomas.

Patients 35 and above with a DIRECT family history of breast cancer are referred for breast ultrasound

All patients 40 and above require a recent mammogram

ML: Have you seen any problems with Macrolane to date?

Dr. PT: Certainly nothing of concern. I have seen two patients out of 150 with small Macrolane lumps that required aspiration. Every new lump has to be treated with immediate respect. I think it is a wonderful product and it will be here for many years to come

Tags: Ailesbury, Breast enhancement, breast surgery, Cosmetic Medicine, Cosmetic Surgery, Looking well, Macrolane, Marraige, Patrick Treacy