The History of Breast Implants

Many people talk about the latest procedures in breast augmentation. New materials are becoming available for surgeons to use for implants each year. However, the concept of breast augmentation is not a new one. Since 1890, women have been injecting and implanting a variety of materials into their breasts.

An Austrian surgeon first injected paraffin into his patients’ chests in the late 1900s. In the 1950s, surgeons used ivory balls, wool and even ox cartilage. Silicone was first used by Japanese prostitutes during World War II. They would inject it into their breasts. The first silicone implant was used in 1961, and the material is still popular today.

Modern patients can choose between silicone or saline implants. Surgeons predict that “gummy bear” implants will be popular in the next few years. Also, researchers are studying the possibility of injecting the patient’s own fat back into their breasts.

For more information on the options currently available to you, contact a plastic surgeon today!