subject: Valuable Information Regarding Silicone Breast Implants [print this page] Silicone breast implants have a long controversial history going back to the late 1980s. As silicone implants became more popular, women started to claim that they were developing all sorts of diseases after they were in their bodies. The most common claims were regarding connective tissue diseases, autoimmune diseases, and the development of cancer. Women filed class action lawsuits saying the leaking of their silicone implants caused them to endure symptoms such as hair loss, fatigue, and rheumatoid arthritis along with other issues. Because of the claims and lack of any conclusive evidence, in 1992 the FDA banned the sale of silicone implants so that the general public could no longer use them. The only way silicone implants were used is if the patient qualified and became part of a study.
In 2006, the FDA approved certain types of silicone implants that could be used in women in their 20s and older. The breast implants available today are made differently than when they first gained popularity. When they first were produced, companies made the implants thinner, which made it more likely to rupture. Nowadays, the approved implants are made of multiple layers which reduce the risks of gel bleed. Since the implants are thicker, they may make the breasts appear and feel firmer, but they are still softer compared to saline filled implants.
Some women decide against silicone and choose saline implants because they are easier to place in the body since silicone implants are prefilled. The prefilled implants arrive at the surgeons office in the specific size it was ordered in and cannot be changed. Recovery time may take longer since larger incisions must be made during the augmentation in order to fit the filled implants.
Not everyone has the option of choosing silicone implants. The FDA states that women have to be at least 22 years of age in order to receive them. The reasoning behind this restriction is that womens breasts are still developing into their early 20s. Once qualified, silicone implants can be used for both augmentation surgery and also revision surgery.
Before going forth with choosing a type of implant that would best suit you, it is important to do research on the available types. Finding a local plastic surgeon that has experience with implants will be able to advise you and give you a reliable recommendation.
Since these implants are going to be in your body for many years to come you will want to feel positive you are making the best choice. Doing so will improve your breast augmentation process and offer you positive results.
