The Return of Silicone Breast Implants

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Silicone implants have been the subject of much controversy since they were pulled off the market in 1992. In fact, with the exception of use for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, silicone implants were virtually a thing of the past with regard to cosmetic breast augmentation.

Despite the controversy over silicone implant use, breast augmentation procedures soared. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more than 360,000 procedures were performed in 2005 alone – the majority of which involved the use of saline-filled breast implants.

For more than a decade, saline-filled breast implants have been standard for augmentations. Still, many complain that saline implants do not have as natural a feel as the silicone. Now, it looks like women may again have the silicone implant as an option.

New and Improved Silicone Implants

Inamed and Mentor are the two corporations currently awaiting FDA approval for their new silicone implants. Last year, both companies got approvable letters from FDA advisors but were required to first meet certain conditions.

Those conditions include:

  • Marketing only to board certified plastic surgeons trained in silicone implant use and post-operative patient follow-up
  • Maintaining a patient data bank to track leaking, rupture, or other problems
  • Obtaining informed consent from patients

Opponents of silicone breast implants cite various health issues associated with the devices, such as leaking silicone, capsular contracture, and possible link to diseases.

However, several studies have found that silicone implants have no connection to life-threatening systemic illnesses or connective tissue disorders. Also, the new silicone implants have thicker shells to help prevent leakage.

FDA approval is expected by the end of this year.

Considering a breast augmentation? Please contact us to learn more about your options or to locate a board certified plastic surgeon near you.


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