The internal bra is an innovative surgical technique utilized in certain breast augmentation operations. The name is apt, as the procedure fulfils many of the same functions as the undergarment.

This designation, which highlights the technique’s principal action, is anything but scientific. Instead, it’s a clever stroke of marketing genius.

Regardless of whether you refer to the procedure as “internal breast support” or an “internal bra,” this solution presents a certain number of advantages, as well as limitations.

Let’s take a closer look at the internal bra, its role in breast augmentation surgery and its prospects in the realm of esthetic medicine.

The internal bra and breast augmentation: what, why and how?

The internal bra is a technique used in breast enhancement surgeries to improve the results and the durability of the operation. It is capable of providing internal support comparable to that provided by a brassiere, but on the inside rather than the outside of the body.

In addition to offering support, an internal bra enables better control of the implants, thereby preventing them from shifting. Because it does a superior job of supporting the breasts and holding them in place, it improves their overall shape and increases the longevity of the results. In fact, an internal bra helps prevent the breasts from sagging over time. Consequently, it will conserve the natural, balanced appearance of the bust long after surgery!

What is a breast augmentation procedure with internal bra?

The internal bra operation is an endoscopic surgery. The surgeon partially detaches the pectoral muscle, retaining approximately 2 cm of the lower and lateral bands of muscle and preserving the medial insertion point. In the case of slightly sagging breasts (breast ptosis), the surgeon will adapt the procedure accordingly by partially sectioning the pectoral muscle at the midpoint in order to obtain an internal band of muscle (toward the center of the bosom) and an external band of muscle (toward the outside of the bosom).

What are the benefits of an internal bra?

Obviously, internal bra surgery makes a real difference in the case of natural breasts that have begun to droop. But that’s not all. It also offers advantages in numerous other situations:

  • It can prevent the breasts from sagging after a breast lift (mastopexy) with implants
  • It can reduce the risk of the breast tissue stretching and sagging prematurely after the introduction of high-volume implants
  • It can reinforce the internal tissues, especially in patients who have already had breast augmentation surgery
  • It can correct certain problems inherent to implants, including the following:
    • The “bottoming out” or descent of the implant
    • The “double bubble,” in which the implant slides below the inframammary fold, resulting in the appearance of a line underneath the nipple
    • The “uni-boob” (symmastia), in which the implants shift toward the center of the chest, consequently reducing or eliminating any appearance of cleavage between the breasts

As you can see, the value of the internal bra in breast augmentation surgery certainly justifies the popularity of the procedure. However, ongoing developments in the field of cosmetic surgery also serve to highlight some of the technique’s limitations.

Limits to bear in mind

Although the benefits of the internal bra are significant, the procedure also presents some shortcomings. It’s important to have realistic expectations regarding the improvements it’s capable of making. Under no circumstances will it ever be a replacement for a true breast lift. Likewise, it can’t guarantee a complete absence of sagging; time will take its toll, and despite the supplemental support the procedure provides, the breasts will eventually face a risk of drooping. When it comes to appearance, an internal bra will never produce the same effect as a push-up bra, either. In that regard, it’s also fitting to point out that patients must continue wearing a brassiere after the procedure.

What’s the price of the internal bra procedure?

Since the internal bra is already part of Dr. Mario F. Bernier’s standard endoscopic breast augmentation surgery, there is no additional fee.

There’s no shortage of innovation in the field of cosmetic medicine. While an internal bra might satisfy your needs, other available procedures might better meet your expectations. There’s no more effective way to determine the solution that’s right for you than to visit the Dr. Mario F. Bernier Aesthetic Surgery and Medicine Clinic.

Source: Dr Bernier. Ultimate guide to breast augmentation. 2024.