Breast augmentation, a procedure that enhances the size and shape of a woman's breasts, has evolved into the most popular plastic surgery worldwide. With advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques, the procedure has become safer, more accessible, and relatively affordable, leading to a significant increase in its popularity.
Breast augmentation has seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the years. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, over 193,000 breast augmentation procedures were performed in the United States, making it one of the top cosmetic surgical procedures. This number reflects a broader global trend towards cosmetic enhancements, with breast augmentation consistently ranking high due to its perceived impact on body image and self-esteem.
The journey of breast augmentation began in the late 19th century with rudimentary and often unsafe practices. The first recorded attempt at breast augmentation was by Austrian surgeon Vincenz Czerny in 1895, who used a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor) to repair asymmetry in a woman’s breast after a tumor removal. However, these early attempts were fraught with complications and often led to unsatisfactory results.
In the early 20th century, various materials were experimented with, including paraffin, glass balls, ground rubber, and even ox cartilage. These materials often caused severe complications such as infections, hardening, and disfigurement. By the 1960s, the first silicone breast implants were developed by American plastic surgeons Frank Gerow and Thomas Cronin. Silicone quickly became the preferred material due to its more natural feel and appearance compared to previous substances.
The 1990s marked a significant turning point when concerns about the safety of silicone gel implants led to a temporary FDA ban in 1992. This was primarily due to complications such as breast hardening, leakage, and fears of systemic diseases, which later studies found to be unsubstantiated. The ban prompted further research and the development of safer, more robust silicone implants and the introduction of saline implants as an alternative. In 2006, after rigorous review and clinical studies, the FDA re-approved silicone implants for breast augmentation, citing improved designs and safety profiles.
Today, breast augmentation utilizes highly advanced techniques and materials. The implants are mainly of two types: saline-filled and silicone gel-filled, each with specific advantages and patient suitability. The procedure itself has also become more refined, with options like fat grafting emerging as an alternative to implants, offering patients a more natural form of enhancement using their own body fat.
For those considering breast augmentation, it is crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide detailed information on the types of implants, the risks involved, and the expected outcomes. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons offers resources and guidance for selecting a qualified surgeon.
Breast augmentation has come a long way from its primitive beginnings to become a symbol of modern cosmetic surgery's success in enhancing personal appearance and confidence. With ongoing advancements in surgical practices and implant technology, the procedure continues to improve in safety and effectiveness, offering individuals options that were unimaginable a century ago.
For more detailed information on the procedure and to find a certified surgeon, visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
This historical and technological evolution of breast augmentation not only reflects advancements in medical science but also changes in societal attitudes towards beauty and self-enhancement.
The Shape And Texture Of Cohesive Gel Implants
Textured implants are believed to be more resistant to implant rotation post surgery. Because of this fact, all cohesive gel implants have a textured surface.
Saline Breast Implants - The Good And The Very Bad!
Saline implants were once the most popular requested implant in the United States. The primary reason for their current popularity decline is because the more controversial implant, silicone gel, is now available for unrestricted use in breast augmentation surgery.
Breast Implants - Rupture And Leakage
The FDA once banned silicone gel implants for use in breast augmentation surgery. This ban lasted fourteen years. They were primarily concerned with two things: rupture and leakage.
