For More Information Call
0115 966 2000
Reconstruction Methods -
About Implants
About silicone implants
What are implants?
All breast implants are made of a silicone shell, which can be filled with either silicone (usually used) or saline. The silicone implants feel better than saline.
Silicone implants are available in round shape (most commonly used) or tear drop shaped (anatomical implants).The anatomical implants can avoid some fullness in the upper aspect of the breast. However, round implants give similar results in most patients.
The silicone within these implants can be viscous (standard) or solid (like a jelly baby) when cut, the cohesive gel implants. The cohesive gel implants have been designed so that if an implant shell weakens over decades the silicone will remain in its shape. It must be stressed there is no evidence this makes a difference to apparent ‘safety’.
Is silicone safe?
Yes. Silicone is the most used of all medical substances. There is now over four decades of experience. Large studies have shown no increased association of breast cancer, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, fatigue syndromes or other associations. However, if a patient feels uncomfortable about the use of silicone implants then saline filled implants can be used.
Are there problems associated with implants?
Yes. Although implants are not in themselves dangerous there are potential problems associated with them. These are scar or capsule formation around an implant. This is normal and is usually thin and soft and holds the implant nicely in place. However, in up to 30% of reconstruction patients this scar becomes thick and firm resulting in the implants ‘going firm’. This is problematic in terms of pain and distortion in some although not all of these patients. Capsule problems increase dramatically if radiotherapy is used in your treatment.
If distortion or discomfort of the breast is problematic treatment is by removal of the scar and implant and either replacement of the implant or using your own body tissue (back or tummy) instead of an implant.
Infection is other potential problem with implants. This occurs in ~2% but rises if radiotherapy is used. It often results in loss of the implant and hence loss of the reconstruction.
How long to implants last?
Another important question that is difficult to fully answer. There is evidence to suggest that the implant shell weakens over the first one to two decades resulting in a number rupturing. There is however, no evidence to suggest this is in itself problematic. The answer in short is implants last between 10-30 years. If they change in shape or texture then they can be imaged with ultrasound or MRI scan, which can detect a rupture in 95%. If found to be ruptured we do recommend replacement. It is important to realise, especially in younger patients that they may well need the implants replacing at some point in life. It may be after one to four decades.
Good information can be found at the department of health website www.silicone-review.gov.uk
Is there a problem with breast cancer, breast screening or self-examination if I have an implant in the opposite breast (sometimes done to help symmetry after reconstruction)?
No. Breast cancer and silicone implants have no causal association. Indeed the incidence of breast cancer in patients with implants is marginally lower. The implants are solid on X-rays and can therefore obscure breast tissue on mammogram. However, different views can solve this problem and indeed in some patients pushing the breast forward can help. The same is true of self-examination for breast lumps.
