The Keller Funnel: A Game-Changer in Breast Implant Surgery

Keller Funnel being used in breast augmentation

What is a Keller Funnel?

What is the Keller Funnel? The Keller Funnel is a cone-shaped, sterile plastic device that looks somewhat like a pastry bag. It's designed specifically for inserting silicone breast implants during augmentation surgery. The funnel is coated with a special slippery substance that helps the implant slide through easily.
How does it work?

1. The surgeon places the breast implant into the wider end of the funnel.
2. The narrow end of the funnel is inserted into the incision in the patient's breast.
3. The surgeon then squeezes the funnel, pushing the implant through and into place.

Let's dive deeper into the benefits:

1. Smaller Scars
   • Traditional methods often require incisions about 5-6 cm long.
   • With the Keller Funnel, incisions can be as small as 2.5-3.5 cm.
   • Smaller incisions mean less noticeable scars, which is especially important for women concerned about visible marks after surgery.
2. Quicker and Easier Surgery
   • Inserting implants by hand can be tricky and time-consuming.
   • The funnel allows for smoother insertion, potentially cutting the surgery time by 20-30 minutes.
   • Less time under anesthesia is generally safer for the patient.
3. Lower Chance of Infection
   • In traditional methods, the implant might touch the patient's skin or the surgeon's gloves.
   • The funnel creates a barrier, preventing these contacts.
   • This "no-touch" technique significantly reduces the risk of bacteria transferring to the implant.
   • Lower bacterial contamination not only reduces infection risk but also decreases the chance of capsular contracture, a complication where scar tissue forms around the implant.
4. Gentler on Your Body
   • Manually pushing an implant through a small incision can cause trauma to the surrounding tissues.
   • The funnel allows the implant to glide in more smoothly, causing less damage to breast tissues.
   • Less tissue damage often translates to reduced post-operative pain and swelling, potentially leading to a quicker recovery.
5. Better for the Implants
   • Squeezing or pushing implants by hand can put stress on the implant shell.
   • The funnel's gentle insertion method reduces this stress.
   • This could potentially extend the lifespan of the implants and lower the risk of implant rupture or damage over time.
6. Versatility
   • The Keller Funnel can be used with various implant sizes and types.
   • It's compatible with different surgical approaches.
7. Potential Cost Benefits
   • While the funnel itself adds a small cost to the procedure, the benefits it provides (like reduced risk of complications) could lead to cost savings in the long run.

In conclusion, the Keller Funnel represents a significant advancement in breast augmentation techniques. It offers benefits to both the surgeon and the patient, potentially improving the overall safety, efficiency, and outcomes of the procedure. However, it's important to note that the success of any breast augmentation surgery still largely depends on the skill and experience of the surgeon, regardless of the tools used.
For more information about breast augmentation, click here.