Breast implants

Abstract

An estimated 150 000 women undergo breast augmentation each year (Sprague Zones, 1992). About 80% of these women have the surgery to increase the size of their breasts for cosmetic reasons, the remainder have implants that are inserted for reconstruction after removal of breast tissue for health related reasons. The US market alone for these implants is about $100 million annually which is about three times the European market. Major commercial suppliers include Aesthetech, Cox-Uphoff, Dow Corning Wright, McGhan, Mentor and Surgitek. Implant classifications include smooth gel-filled, textured gel-filled, polyurethane covered, saline-filled, double lumen and permanent expander (Table 8.1). The smooth gel-filled implant is most commonly used based on published estimates (Sprague Zones, 1992). The total breast implant market has been estimated to be 300 000 units per year in 1986.