Replacing Breast Implants

Posted Monday, September 10, 2007 to PROCEDURES > Breast

Posted by The Original Anti-Aging & Cosmetic Surgery Magazine

84% of women having breast implants removed have replaced them with new implants, according to a study just released by the American Society of Plastic & Reconstructive surgeons.

In 1998, 32,262 women with breast augmentation had their breast implants removed, and 27,320 of them opted for new implants.

"Women are comfortable about the safety of their breast implants. So as their implants age, we will continue to see more implant exchanges," said ASPRS President Dr Paul Schnur. Most women in the USA who have breast implant surgery receive saline filled implants - silicone rubber shells filled with sterile saltwater.

The study also shows 93% of implants were removed due to physical symptoms, such as signs of rupture or capsular contracture. "If a saline implant leaks or ruptures, the saltwater is harmlessly absorbed by the body and the implant is removed and replaced," said Dr Shnur. "Capsular contracture is a problem that occurs if the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten, causing the breast to feel hard." 53% of breast implant removal patients also had removal or scoring of scar tissue.

Breast implant removals have increased 76% since 1992, with only 4% of patients having them removed due to their concern over the safety of breast implants. "The increase in breast implant removals most likely reflects implants inserted prior to 1992," says Dr Schnur. "As implants age, some leak or rupture and need to be replaced."

Further information on breast surgeries and statistics can be found at the ASPRS web site at www.plasticsurgery.org in the National Clearinghouse of Plastic Surgery Statistics.

Top 5 Female Cosmetic Procedures

1. Liposuction 152,290
2. Breast Augmentation 132,378
3. Eyelid Surgery 104,437
4. Facelift 64,987
5. Chemical Peel 62,715

Total 1998 Female Procedures: 946,784

*Source: American Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons

Add Comment

To discourage SPAM, we ask that you type your code (displayed below) in the text box.

Your Code:
Enter Code:	*