Silicone breast implants are FDA approved medical devices used in breast augmentation and reconstruction procedures. The implants are comprised of a silicone shell filled with silicone gel and are available in various shapes and sizes and with smooth or textured surfaces. Because silicone gel has a texture similar to that of breast tissue, silicone breast implants tend to have a more natural look and feel than saline implants.
If you are considering breast augmentation or reconstruction, please contact us today to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who can help you understand your options.
The Safety of Silicone Breast Implants
For 14 years, the FDA banned silicone breast implants over a variety of safety concerns. The implants had been accused of causing major health problems including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, connective tissue disease, and cancer. However, reports by the Institute of Medicine as well as numerous studies conducted over the years have concluded that silicone breast implants cause no such health risks and are, in fact, safe and effective for use in augmentation and reconstruction procedures.
In November 2006, the FDA issued a statement announcing the approval of Mentor MemoryGel™ and Allergan Inamed® Silicone Breast Implants. The decision for approval was based on extensive data collected from clinical trials on the risks and benefits of the medical devices.
What You Should Know About Silicone Implants
Silicone breast implants can be used to:
- Augment the size of the breast
- Correct asymmetry or breast abnormalities
- Replace breast tissue lost during cancer treatment or other trauma
- Improve the results of previous procedures
- Improve the results of previous procedures
The implants, which are available for women age 22 and older, are surgically implanted either under the muscle or under the breast tissue. Silicone breast implants, like saline, do carry a risk of rupture or leakage. Women who undergo augmentation or reconstruction procedures with silicone breast implants are encouraged to follow-up with a physician every couple of years to ensure that no ruptures or leaks have occurred.
Interested in Silicone Breast Implants?
Please contact us today to speak with an experienced board certified plastic surgeon who can answer your questions and help you weigh your options.
Recent Silicone Implant News
4/17/2008 - Silicone Breast Implants and Symptoms to Watch For