Are silicone implants safe? A question that is often asked of individuals is who are considering the investment in breast implants. Silicone gel implants were removed from the market in 1992, after there was thought to be a link to cancer, connective tissue disorders and to autoimmune disorders. Yet, they were allowed back on the market in 2006 and since then doctors have recommended these implants to some women. Although they are FDA approved for use in the US, it is important to note that the implants can cause damage to the structure of the breast (the breast will not return to its normal shape after an implant is removed) and that there are some higher risks of complications over other types of implants. These types of implants also make it more difficult to for mammograms to be read.