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Review
. 2019 Nov;33(4):217-223.
doi: 10.1055/s-0039-1696985. Epub 2019 Oct 17.

The Evolution of Breast Implants

Christodoulos Kaoutzanis  1 , Julian Winocour  2 , Jacob Unger  2 , Allen Gabriel  3 , G Patrick Maxwell  2
Affiliations
Review

The Evolution of Breast Implants

Christodoulos Kaoutzanis et al. Semin Plast Surg. 2019 Nov.

Abstract

Breast augmentation remains one of the most commonly performed aesthetic procedures in the United States and worldwide. Throughout the last few decades, the implants used for this procedure have undergone significant advancements, which has allowed surgeons to provide safer and more aesthetically pleasing outcomes. This article discusses the history of breast implants since their invention in 1962. Particular emphasis is given to the evolution of silicone implants with its many challenges, which has resulted in the development of the currently used fourth- and fifth-generation devices. Knowledge of these advances will allow physicians to more critically evaluate their results, and also will encourage them to provide more up-to-date scientific data on these devices to further improve the clinical outcomes of their patients.

Keywords: aesthetic surgery; breast implant; cosmetic surgery; evolution; silicone breast implant.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest Dr. Gabriel is a consultant for Allergan and KCI. Dr. Unger is a consultant for Allergan. None of the other authors have any conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The original Cronin–Gerow silicone implant had an anatomic (teardrop) shape, smooth surface, and posteriorly placed Dacron patches to help maintain the implant's position.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Scanning electron microscopic images of Silimed TRUE Texture, Allergan Biocell, and Mentor Siltex textured surfaces at 65-times magnification. (Reproduced with permission from Stevens W, Nahabedian M, Calobrace M, et al. Risk factor analysis for capsular contracture: A 5-year Sientra study analysis using round, smooth, and textured implants for breast augmentation. Plast Reconstr Surg 2013;132(5):1115–1123.)
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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