The Silicone Gel-Filled Breast Implant Controversy: An Update

Learning Objectives: After studying this article, the participant should: 1. Be familiar with the medical uses of silicone. 2. Have a working knowledge of the most important epidemiologic studies regarding silicone gel-filled breast implants. 3. Be aware of the issues about which patients desiring breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants must be counseled. In January of 1992, the Food and Drug Administration implemented a voluntary but strongly urged moratorium on the sale and use of silicone breast implants pending a review of additional information. By April of that year, the Food and Drug Adminstration had converted this moratorium to what was essentially a ban. Since then, silicone gel-filled breast implants have been alleged to be associated with numerous health problems ranging from cancer to autoimmune disease. Plastic surgeons should be aware of the issues surrounding silicone gel-filled breast implants, be familiar with the medical uses for silicone, and have a working knowledge of the most important epidemiologic studies in this area. This knowledge will better enable plastic surgeons to counsel their patients regarding the risks and benefits of breast implant surgery. (Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 109: 742, 2001.)