Thinking about Breast Augmentation? Many are Choosing Silicone Implants

There's nothing like filling your body up with synthetic compounds to build self-confidence. A recent report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration indicates that just a little more than six years after the ban was lifted for silicone breast implants, they've made a big comeback.

In 2012, 72 percent of the 330,631 breast-augmentation procedures in the United States used silicone implants, while 28 percent used saline, or sterile salt water. In 2006, the year the ban was lifted, only 19 percent of procedures used silicone, according to new statistics released in March by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, a group of more than 2,600 plastic surgeons.

According to many plastic surgeons and patients, silicone implants look and feel more natural than other products used to enhance the size or shape of breasts. However, the FDA banned their use in cosmetic procedures in 1992 after complaints that the devices could rupture and lead to such health problems as connective-tissue diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Yet, once the ban was lifted, the FDA stated silicone implants as "safe and effective."

However, the FDA notes from a 2011 report that 20 percent of patients who receive silicone implants for breast augmentation will need them removed 10 years later and potential complications of the devices could lead to infection, scarring and hardening of the area.

As technological advances continue to improve modern science, the silicone-implant is also improving, the FDA notes. A new "form-stable" implant from drug and device maker Allergan Inc. has been reported to have a more natural teardrop shape the appearance of breasts, according to 1.67 percent of surgeons. They have also been reported as firmer.

A similar device from implant maker Sientra Inc., which some surgeons dub "gummy-bear" implants, was approved in March 2012.

Surgeons note that the typical woman looking for breast implants is in her mid to late thirties and has had one or more children.