Background
Breast augmentation practice in New Zealand over the past decade has been influenced by a number of factors including cosmetic tourism and BIA-ALCL. Anecdotally the number of cosmetic breast augmentations performed by plastic surgeons has decreased during this time.
Objectives
The aim of our study was to utilise an online survey to analyse changing trends in breast augmentation surgery by New Zealand plastic surgeons over the last 10 years.
Methods
An online survey was distributed to all active members of the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons with at least 10 years of consultant level experience.
Results
26 of a total eligible 41 respondents completed the questionnaire. Results show that the number of surgeons offering cosmetic augmentation has significantly decreased from 92% in 2014 to just 57% today. The number of patients seeking consultation for augmentation from plastic surgeons as well as the number of cosmetic augmentations performed has declined with explantation only procedures increasing. The ratio of primary to revision procedures has also changed to favour revision.
Conclusions
The number of plastic surgeons offering CBA in New Zealand has significantly decreased over the past 10 years. BIA-ALCL, BII and changing public and patient perceptions may have all contributed to this.