Silicone Implants Don't Raise Risk for Breast Cancer

    /24-7PressRelease/ - NEW YORK, NY, June 06, 2008 - For women considering breast augmentation, it can be a daunting task to research the history, safety and effectiveness of saline and silicone breast implants. And even though the complication rates are low, you still have to prepare yourself for the possibility of side effects. And while you are researching your facts, you must make sure you get your information from a credible source - there are a lot of rumored risks surrounding silicone in particular that have no scientific basis.

The myth that silicone implants may raise your risk of breast cancer is one such piece of information that is not rooted in fact. Extensive studies have been performed to address this hypothesis, and the definitive study examining a potential link was conclusive with findings that silicone implants do not raise the risk for breast cancer. And actually, a 2006 study in Sweden found that women who have breast implants may actually enjoy the benefit of a reduced risk of breast cancer!

There tends to be more discussion of silicone implants and their potential dangers because these types of implants were banned from the market for a period of time after they were found to be linked to systemic diseases following leakage and rupture.

Silicone implants are now back on the market, FDA-approved, and safer than ever before. Today's models use state-of-the-art technology to ensure patients do not face additional risks above and beyond the normal, accepted and relatively low complication rate. For women will not consider using silicone implants due to myths like the silicone/breast cancer one, they may be missing out on the advantages of this material.

The benefits of silicone implants include:
• Some patients prefer silicone due to a more natural appearance and feel.
• Rippling is less likely to occur with silicone than saline.
• The texture of the silicone is gel-like, so it moves similar to breast tissue.
• Silicone can be placed over the muscle.
• Silicone can be placed successfully in women with little breast tissue.
• Silicone implants are less likely to be seen through the skin than saline (when choosing over the muscle implants).

If you are considering having breast augmentation surgery, get your facts from a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who can provide you with accurate, scientific information about your risks and the potential side effects. Choose a cosmetic surgery center that promotes safety during all phases of care and uses only FDA-approved implants.

For more information about breast implant safety and your saline and silicon options, visit the website of Dr. Howard T. Bellin, a New York-based cosmetic surgeon who has performed more than 2,000 breast enlargement procedures.

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