Recent work has developed a device allowing non-surgical breast
enlargement. Dr. Adams
serves as one of the supervising physicians.
This device works using a vacuum assisted soft tissue expansion principle (similar to Austin Power's "Swedish Pump" seen in the movies!). The device requires strict compliance for it to work being worn for 10-12 hours/d for 10 weeks. The early data has shown about 70% of patients are able to comply with this routine. The amount of breast enlargement has been an average of 105cc +/- 40 cc approximately 6 months after treatment. That translates roughly into 1/3 the size of a can of Coke. The long-term >1year results of this device are not yet known.
What does it look like?
The
BRAVA System consists of two semi- rigid domes with specially engineered silicone gel rims held in place by a
sports- bra over the breasts. It is powered by the powered by the SmartBox™, a
self- regulating microprocessor that creates and regulates the vacuum pressure within the domes.
Dome port and T-connector Tubing
The
SmartBox™ consists of a microprocessor, sensor, miniature pump and
rechargeable batteries. A small port at the lower portion of each dome is used
to connect them to the SmartBox™ using T-connector tubing. The SmartBox™
creates and regulates the vacuum pressure within the domes, and records the
hours the user wears the system and the pressure exerted within the domes,
which together define the wear pattern.
The SmartBox™ is recharged daily on the System's base unit, which is called
a Cradle. The Cradle is also used to transmit wear data via a built in modem to
BRAVA's secure database servers. Once this data is transmitted, the user can
access the information via the Internet at www.mybrava.com under the section "Member Information." This information allows the user as well as
the Doctor to monitor and evaluate progress during treatment.
Support
bra covers the system.
Results
These images represent patients who responded well to the device. There have been other patients who have not responded as well and may not obtain as good as results. (please note these patients were provided by the manufacturer and were not treated by Dr. Adams)
What's the bottom line?
As someone who specializes in surgery of the breast, Dr. Adams will continue to discuss this option with his patients and use this new technology for indicated patients. The initial experience with the BRAVA device has been unfavorable.
The essential question for the patient revolves around the time commitment and ultimate gain vs. the cost of the device.
Dr. Adams has several specially developed techniques to help his patients evaluate this new technology compared to a surgical breast enlargement, and to determine which method will work best for each individual.