HOW BREAST AUGMENTATION EVOLVED

A Brief History on the Beginning of Breast Implants

From sponges and inflatables to silicone and saline, the breast augmentation process has evolved dramatically to become the number one cosmetic procedure in the United States that it is today. This is how it happened.

IN THE BEGINNING

Texas doctors, Frank Gerow and Thomas Cronin, first introduced silicone implants in 1962. The first recipient of the new silicone implants was 30 year old Timmie Jean Lindsey, who just recently spoke at the 50^th anniversary for such implants in 2012.

In 1965, saline implants made their debut. These saltwater-filled implants, developed by French surgeon H.R. Arion, gained popularity because of their ability to be placed with smaller incisions than silicone implants required.

THE EVOLUTION OF IMPLANTS

Many other alternatives like inflatable implants tried to make their way into breast augmentation, but it was silicone and saline that continued to thrive, with mass production beginning in the 1970s.

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.

THE BREAST BOOM

Everything about breast augmentation has evolved dramatically since its early beginnings.

At the turn of the century, breast augmentation saw a huge popularity boom. The number of breast augmentation procedures in the U.S. shot from just over 100,000 in 1997 to over 316,000 in 2011, an increase of over 316%.

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 different implant options available to patients, women are more able than ever to achieve the exact look that they desire.

Find out about the latest in cosmetic breast surgery today.