Concerns about implant rupture, capsular contracture, breast implant illness (BII), and the rare condition known as BIA-ALCL have led many women to ask more informed questions before breast augmentation surgery at our Chicago practice. Fortunately, newer implant technologies, improved manufacturing standards, and better patient education have helped make breast augmentation safer and more predictable than ever before.
The implants available today are extremely advanced and, simply put, the best implants ever made. They’re engineered using sophisticated techniques to ensure extreme durability with minimal complications. I offer both round silicone and saline implants, which are very safe and FDA-approved.
Historical Context
Saline implants became a popular alternative when the FDA restricted the use of silicone implants from 1992 to 2006. The FDA lifted those restrictions in 2006 after extensive studies demonstrated the implants’ safety. At the same time, the agency approved silicone implants for patients aged 22 and older. Since 2006, cohesive silicone gel implants have become increasingly popular, with about 85% of patients today choosing them over saline implants.
Texture Matters
Several years ago, teardrop-shaped, textured implants became very popular because they were thought to look more natural and cause fewer complications. However, it’s been shown that these implants, once placed in the body, look very similar to smooth, round implants. They can also rotate in some patients. Additionally, shaped and textured implants were the only implants that have been reported to be associated with ALCL breast implant lymphoma, which is an extremely rare condition. No ALCL cases have ever been associated with smooth, round silicone implants, which is why I only use this version in my practice.
Long-Term Safety
Many years ago, there was concern that breast implants may be associated with autoimmune disease; this was extensively studied and never shown to be true. A significant amount of research has been done, and never have smooth round breast implants been shown to be linked to or cause any disease of any kind. They also do not cause long-term changes in nipple sensation or hinder breastfeeding. To address these concerns, the FDA updated the information about implants that’s available to both surgeons and women considering breast augmentation.
Monitoring Your Implants
I do encourage all patients, with or without implants, to follow the recommendations regarding the frequency of breast self-exams, mammograms, and implant monitoring. The FDA recommends implants be monitored with an imaging test 3 years after placement, and then every 2 years.
If you have concerns about your implants, or are considering breast augmentation for the first time, request a consultation using the online form or give us a call at (312) 788-2560.
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