A breast implant is a synthetic, round or tear-shaped silicone shell that is filled with either sterile saline (saltwater) or silicone gel. The implants are placed behind the skin or muscles in the chest to simulate a natural breast.

Breast implants are used in breast augmentation, a cosmetic surgery women chose to alter the size or shape of their breast. Breast implants also may be used in breast reconstruction following mastectomy for breast cancer. The implants offer women the option of having a breast-like shape with a natural feel.

In the United States, silicone implants were removed from the market in 1992. The implants were associated with an increased risk of immune system diseases and connective tissue disorders. Previous studies had indicated a risk of potentially hazardous levels of platinum leaking into the body from silicone implants. For that reason, silicone implants were available only to women who had undergone a mastectomy, had a physical deformity or were in need of a replacement for a damaged implant. They were able to receive the silicone implants only when enrolled in a controlled clinical trial, known as an investigational device exemption (IDE) study.

But to date, all subsequent studies have failed to show any increased risk of connective tissue diseases and autoimmune diseases among women who have chosen to have silicone implants. As a result, the Food and Dug Administration (FDA) lifted its restrictions on silicone implants in November of 2006, allowing their use for breast augmentation in patients 22 years or older, and for breast reconstruction surgery in patients of any age. Even though many other countries have not removed silicone implants from the marketplace, the FDA is requiring the two companies that are allowed to manufacture silicone implants to continue conducting long-term studies on their safety and efficacy.

Breast implant surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon who reviews the patient’s implant options (e.g., size and shape) and offers advice regarding the procedure. Breast implant surgery often leads to a good cosmetic result. However, in the case of breast reconstruction, there is typically little or no feeling in the reconstructed breast because the nerves have been severed.

When choosing breast implants for either augmentation or reconstructive surgery, it is important that the patient realize that the implants will have to be replaced within five to 10 years, if not earlier. For breast reconstruction, the patient’s body type, age and cancer treatment may play a significant role in determining which type of reconstruction will offer the best results.

In the past, breast implants were thought to increase the risk of breast cancer. However, several large studies have refuted that theory and implants are not considered a risk factor for breast cancer. It is important to note, however, that breast implants may interfere with mammograms or breast self-examinations.