Poland's syndrome is rare congenital condition that affects the development of the chest muscles, breasts and also sometimes the arm typically only involving one side of the body. There are many considerations for treatment depending on the severity which ranges from mild to severe. Options for breast enhancement range from relatively simple implant placement if there is adequate soft tissue, either above or below the pectoralis muscle, primarily as with breast augmentation using any type of implant whether saline or silcone, round or shaped, smooth or textured. If tissue is inadequate options include expandable implants (tissue expansion), muscle flap reconstruction and/or fat grafting.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

In my experience, the best results in Poland's Syndrome patients is to reconstruct the breast in two stages. The first is to insert a tissue expander to alter the dimensions and the shape of the chest wall. After expansion on a weekly basis for 4-6 weeks, we wait 5 months before removing the expander and inserting the permanent implant. In doing so, after the tissue expander, smooth implants are preferable.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I recommend hi profile implants, round only.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Hello and thanks for your question. What implant(s) can be used in a patient with Poland's depends on 1) the patient's wishes and 2) the severity of the disease. Balancing patient expectations with their anatomy then leads to suitable implant choices.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is really difficult to say without at least seeing photos. That said, I think you would be an excellent candidate for our unique imaging system, which would show you how you would look with different implants/sizes.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There is no right way to do your surgery. Every plastic surgeon bases their decisions on personal experience. Pick the plastic surgeon who you trust the most and let them worry about issues like what shape to use.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I have put both anatomically shaped implants as well as smooth round silicone gel implants in patients with Poland's syndrome. It really is based on your breast measurements and your desired result. And without photos, it is difficult to tell what may be a better choice for you. If your surgeon is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in putting in different types of implants for patients with your condition, he or she is basing their decision on that experience. Good luck with your future surgery.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Anatomical breast implants were designed to better simulate the natural breast shape; the problem with these implants is that if they shift or rotate, the entire breast will change shape as well. This change in breast shape may require further surgery to correct.
Round implants, under the hand, can shift or rotate without changing the shape of the breasts.
Smooth and textured surfaces refer to the breast implant surface characteristics; some surgeons prefer one over the other.
I personally prefer the use of smooth and round implants for most patients.
I hope this helps.
Tom Pousti
http://www.poustiplasticsurgery.com/

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Thank you for asking. This depends on many factors. Each patient with Poland's Syndrome should be evaluated specifically as the plan should not be "cookie cutter." Different implants, incisions, and stages may be different for different people. Only a physical exam and consultation can generate a good plan. The goal appearance should be compared with the normal side to help properly plan. What's right for you should be based on the experience of your Plastic Surgeon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Contoured implants are the best alternative to augment or reconstruct patients with either congenital or acquired deformities of the breast. There are many cosmetic surgeons who want nothing to do with these implants because of the perceived extra complexity.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I am not sure why the second plastic surgeon would not use a shaped implant for you as that would seem to be an ideal implant for anyone that is thin. I would seek a third consultation but a shaped implant is perhaps the best product for anyone that is thin (Polands or no Polands syndrome).

Published on Jul 11, 2012