New Silicone Breast Implant Risks

A recent study by the American Chemical Society finds high levels of toxic metals, Platinum salt, in women with silicone gel breast implants. High levels of platinum have been linked to allergic reactions and toxicity in humans. Other alleged side effects of platinum-enhanced implants include limb numbness and tingling, joint pain, and irreversible kidney damage.

In their studies, researchers conclude that as silicone gel implants break down toxic substances and platinum metals leach into the body causing a myriad of problems. The women involved in the study had silicone implants for 10 to 20 years.

This study has consumer groups concerned as two major breast implant manufacturers, Mentor Corp. and Allergan Inc. (Inamed Corp.), are seeking FDA approval for new silicone implants.

Breast Implants History

Silicone gel-filled implants have been banned for breast augmentation in the U.S. since 1992 after discovering health problems associated with leaking silicone implants. In 2004, a landmark lawsuit was settled against Dow Corning awarding over 170,000 women with faulty silicone breast implants more than $2 billion. Dow Corning was the original manufacturer of silicone breast implants.

Currently saline breast implants are used on the majority of women seeking breast enhancements; approximately 290,000 breast augmentations are performed in the U.S. each year.

Problems and side effects for saline breast implants and silicone gel implants are similar: infection, malposition, rupture, capsular contracture, and bacterial contamination. Other studies have allegedly identified a link between breast implants and an increased risk of brain cancer, lung cancer, and connective tissue disorders.
 

Breast Implants in the News

New study finds additional problems with silicone gel breast implants and hopes to stop FDA approval. (Apr-07-06) [WASHINGTON POST]

The FDA posts potential complications and side effects associated with saline and silicone breast implants. (Sep-15-04) [FDA]
 

Register your Breast Implant Complaint

If you or a loved one has suffered health problems associated with silicone breast implants, you may qualify for damages or remedies that may be awarded in a possible class action or lawsuit. Please fill in our form to submit your complaint to a lawyer for a free evaluation.
Last updated on Nov-18-21