Posted on August 21, 2013 in Breast Enhancement

A Brief History on the Beginning of Breast Implants
For centuries, humans have been trying different things for breast augmentation. From past materials like sponges, we have come a long way with the modern technology of today. This is how breast implants evolved over the past 50 years to help make breast augmentation the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States.
THE BEGINNING
The first silicone implant was introduced by Texas doctors, Frank Gerow and Thomas Cronin in 1962. Timmie Jean Lindsey (age 30 at the time) was the first recipient of the new silicone implants and recently spoke at the 50th anniversary for silicone implants in 2012.
Saline implants made their debut just three years later in 1965. Developed by French surgeon, H.R. Arion, these saltwater-filled implants gained popularity because of their ability to be placed with smaller incisions than silicone implants required.
THE EVOLUTION
Breast implants started being mass produced in the 1970s. Many other alternatives like inflatable implants tried to make their way into breast augmentation, but it was silicone and saline that continued to thrive.
The 80s brought new design changes to silicone and saline implants and each received a redesign of the outer shell. Today, they both feature an external silicone casing.
In January 1992, the FDA banned silicone implants in the United States, which allowed for saline to gain serious popularity.
THE POPULARITY BOOM
Breast augmentation saw a huge popularity boom at the turn of the century. The number of breast augmentation procedures in the US shot from just over 100,000 in 1997 to over 316,000 in 2011, an increase of over 316%.
Everything about breast augmentation has evolved dramatically since its early beginnings. The two types of implants have become much safer and more natural looking. Silicone gel implants are back and more popular than ever with the new FDA approval of silicone gel implants. Surgeries are now also minimally invasive and have been receiving great patient reviews each year.
With various different options available to patients, women are more able than ever to achieve the exact look that they desire.
Want to know more about the latest in cosmetic breast surgery?
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