Setting The Record Straight About Silicone Implant Safety

Silicone breast implants are increasingly popular among women undergoing breast augmentation surgery. In 2010, silicone breast implants were placed during half of all breast augmentation surgeries. In the past, there have been concerns that silicone breast implants may be associated with possible negative complications. If you remember these concerns, you will be glad to know that modern silicone breast implants have been redesigned with safety in mind.

While no surgery is without risk, new data has been released by the FDA that addresses the short- and long-term safety of silicone breast implants. This information will help consumers choose between saline and silicone implants.

The History of Silicone Implant Safety

In 1992, the FDA removed all silicone breast implants from the market, due to concerns about silicone breast implant safety that arose in the 1980s. In 2006, the FDA approved the improved breast implants that are currently available.

One of the conditions of the FDA’s approval was that implant manufacturers would conduct studies tracking risks and complications over time. The results include a review of medical literature about silicone breast implants.

The literature review found that:

• Most women were highly satisfied with the feel, shape, and size of their breast implants, and had a good body image.
• Women who received silicone breast implants are not at a higher risk for developing breast cancer.
• Silicone filled breast implants do not seem to affect breastfeeding or fertility.

There is not yet enough data to address some other concerns, but many of the safety concerns of older model silicone breast implants are being proven incorrect. If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation surgery, contact our Boston office.

You can read the full study details and results about silicone implant safety here at the FDA’s website.