What is a Keller Funnel?
If you have done research on Breast Augmentations, you may have already heard of a Keller Funnel. If not, don’t worry; we will let you know what they are, what they’re used for, and the advantages and disadvantages of using them.
A Keller Funnel is a device used by some surgeons for breast augmentation procedures that is designed for enhanced efficiency during breast implant placement.
Dr. Broadway has been using the Keller Funnel for approximately 6 years and uses it on all gel implant breast augmentation surgeries. He believes the funnel is a dramatic improvement in breast augmentation surgery technique.
Steps in using a Keller Funnel:
- Trim the funnel
- Wet the inside of the funnel with saline, making the inner surface slippery
- Insert the implant into the funnel
- Propel the implant into the breast pocket
Advantages of the Keller Funnel
Some advantages to using a Keller Funnel include:
- Reduces risk of infection
It offers a “no touch” technique for round implants and a “minimal touch” technique for shaped implants. This minimizes contact with the implant in an attempt to reduce the risk for contamination. To further reduce risk, Dr. Broadway uses double gloves and a Tegaderm barrier.
- Shorter incision
- Less trauma to the implant itself
It minimizes the risk of gel fracture (this decreases the risk for rippling) and minimizes the risk of tearing the implant.
- Easier for the surgeon to insert the implant
- Shortens the surgery time
Disadvantages of the Keller Funnel
There is really no patient disadvantage to using a Keller Funnel except for cost, as it does add to the overall cost of the surgery.
The original Keller Funnel was made from sailcloth, which worked well and offered all the above-mentioned advantages, but there have been upgrades in technology.
The Keller Funnel 2 was redesigned with a clear polymeric material that is more slippery as the implant passes through it. This is especially helpful with textured implants as their surface creates more friction between the implant and the funnel.
Interested in the breast augmentation surgery and wonder if the Keller Funnel would be used in your procedure? Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Broadway, top Denver board-certified plastic surgeon. Give us a call at 303.680.8989 to book your consultation.