A Quick History of Breast Implants
Breast Augmentation has grown to be the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States. Last year, over 300,000 women received breast implants. With all the new technology and techniques we have today, it is amazing to look back and see where today’s hottest procedure began its humble beginnings.
The ‘60s
In 1962, Frank Gerow and Thomas Cronin introduced the first silicone breast implants. The first-ever human recipient was a Timmie Jean Lindsey, whose breasts bumped up from a B-Cup to a C-Cup. She again made headlines last year when she spoke at the 50th anniversary for silicone implants.
Just three years later, a French surgeon, H.R. Arion, produced the first form of saline implants. These implants gained popularity because they required smaller incisions than the silicone implants.
The ‘70s
Breast implants were being mass-produced and new alternatives, like inflatable implants, were being created. It was because of their soft and more natural feel that silicone implants continued to thrive.
The ‘80s
Safety concerns with the silicone implants led to the development of a thicker outer-shell by the end of the decade. Saline implants also switch to a new shell design.
The ‘90s
Silicone breast implants were banned from cosmetic use in 1992. This allowed saline implants to gain extreme popularity during the decade.
Today
Breast augmentation has seen a huge popularity boom. The number of procedures in the US shot from just over 100,000 in 1997 to over 316,000 in 2011.
Everything about breast augmentation has evolved dramatically since its early beginnings. Silicone gel implants are back and more popular than ever with the new FDA approval of silicone gel implants. Surgeries are minimally invasive and have been receiving great patient reviews. With various different options available to patients, women are now, more than ever, able to achieve the exact look that they desire.
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