Breast augmentation is a readily available, medically advanced procedure that has benefited countless women across the globe – both physically and psychologically. However, the procedure itself is relatively new, with many women unaware of just how far it has come since its initial days of practice.
Implants have been used since at least 1895 to enhance the size of a woman’s breasts, as well as to augment the shape. The earliest known breast implant was attempted by Vincenz Czerny, using a woman’s own adipose – or loose connective – tissue. During the procedure, Czerny surgically transferred a benign growth from a woman’s back into her breast, in order to avoid asymmetry after removing a tumor from that same breast.
Previous to this procedure, however, medical records show that paraffin injections were given in 1889, in an attempt to augment breast size or shape – with disastrous results. During the early to mid 1900s, a number of other substances were implanted or injected for the same purpose, including glass balls, ivory, ox cartilage, wool, rubber and other materials.
In recent history – throughout the 1950s and 1960s – silicone injections were given to approximately 50,000 women. However, such treatment has resulted in a number of women developing silicone granulomas and hardening of the breasts. Even today, some women are having to undergo treatment due to the adverse effects of silicone injections given to them decades ago. In most severe cases, a mastectomy is required.
Silicon filled implants were finally introduced in 1961 in the US, though they went through a number of drastic changes over the following two decades. For instance, silicon shells were prone to hardening when they were first released on the market, so polyurethane shells were introduced instead. In 1988, the FDA declared a stop on silicon implants for cosmetic purposes, though they have once again become an option in recent years.
The procedure has undoubtedly advanced on a significant scale in recent years. Women can now seek breast enlargement procedures with solid assurance that they can achieve the breast size, shape, and contour they’ve always wanted – not to mention a heightened sense of self confidence.
Breast implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, enabling every woman to have the breasts she’s most comfortable with. A qualified surgeon can advise you on which type, size and shape of implants are most suitable for you, as well as discuss any questions or concerns you might have regarding the procedure, what type of results you can expect, or the recovery process. Therefore, it is always in your best interests to speak to a surgeon if you’re considering the life-changing procedure of breast enlargement.