Posted by Laurence Weider on October 26, 2012
Dr. Weider, a native of Southern California, is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has maintained a private practice in Dallas, TX since 1999. After attending Stanford University, he obtained his medical degree (M.D.) from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He then completed a one year surgical internship in Los Angeles at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by a four year general surgery residency in Dallas at Methodist Medical Center, and a two year plastic surgery fellowship in Cleveland at Case Western Reserve University.
Infection prevention is a critical concern in breast augmentation, as an infected implant often necessitates removal and delayed reinsertion. The Keller Funnel offers a revolutionary approach to silicone gel breast implant insertion, addressing key challenges in traditional augmentation techniques and significantly reducing associated risks.
Traditional Implant Insertion vs. Keller Funnel
Unlike saline implants, which are inserted into the surgically created pocket while empty and then filled, silicone gel implants are pre-filled and require careful handling during placement. The traditional insertion method involves manually pushing the implant through the incision, which can:
- Increase contact between the implant and the patient’s skin, heightening the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Subject the implant shell and surrounding tissues to excessive forces, potentially leading to implant or tissue damage.
The Keller Funnel addresses these challenges by minimizing contact and reducing strain during the procedure. Its slippery inner coating facilitates smoother insertion, enabling the implant to glide seamlessly into place.
Benefits of the Keller Funnel
The Keller Funnel provides numerous advantages for both patients and surgeons, including:
- Shorter Incisions: The funnel’s streamlined design allows for smaller incision sizes, enhancing aesthetic outcomes.
- Improved Comfort and Faster Healing: Reduced trauma to the implant and surrounding tissues contributes to a more comfortable recovery and expedited healing process.
- Versatile Incision Placement: The Keller Funnel allows for a broader range of incision locations, enabling personalized surgical approaches.
- Reduced Implant and Incision Strain: The device minimizes forces applied to the implant and incision, preserving the integrity of both.
- Lower Risk of Contamination and Infection: A study from Emory University demonstrated a 27-fold decrease in skin contact and a 50% reduction in bacterial contamination risk when using the Keller Funnel.
A Commitment to Patient Safety and Innovation
The adoption of the Keller Funnel reflects a commitment to advancing patient safety and improving surgical outcomes. By eliminating many of the drawbacks of traditional silicone gel implant insertion, the device enhances the overall breast augmentation experience.
Conclusion
The Keller Funnel represents a significant advancement in breast augmentation, offering enhanced safety, comfort, and precision for silicone gel implants. Patients considering breast augmentation are encouraged to discuss the benefits of the Keller Funnel with their surgeon to ensure the best possible outcomes.
We are one of a limited number of board-certified plastic surgeons in the Dallas metropolitan area using the Keller Funnel. Should you wish to discuss breast augmentation or any other procedure please call Weider Plastic Surgery today at (972) 566-8444.