Type the words “breast augmentation” or “breast implants” into any search engine, and you’ll get millions of results – everything from doctors describing what they do in their own practices to members of the public talking about their own implants or what they think of people who consider augmentation. Everyone has an opinion about breast augmentation. But where is the science?
Here are some of the best online sources to read about the science and research surrounding breast augmentation and breast implants:
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): As part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the NCBI offers access to thousands of research articles, books, studies, and reviews on breast implants and augmentation surgeries through the PubMed database. Any interested member of the public can use the search function on the NCBI website to find the most recently-published research and scientific information on breast implants.
The NCBI also offers access to partial or full-text scientific articles, books, and journals on its website. For instance, one book available in the collection is Safety of Silicone Breast Implants, published by the Committee on the Safety of Silicone Breast Implants in 1999. Readers can browse the entire book online, or download a PDF version of the text to read at their leisure.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA is responsible for approving and clearing new medical devices, including breast implants, for use in patients. On its website, the FDA provides information including a history of breast implants, data on saline and silicone implants, tips for surgery, and a list of potential risks and complications. The agency also allows readers to sign up for alerts, so you can know if your implants have been recalled or are under investigation.
Medline Plus: A service of the National Institutes of Health, Medline Plus provides information on a wide range of topics, including breast implants and implant revisions. The site also provides links to other reputable sources, such as the American Cancer Society and the Mayo Clinic.
Natrelle: Allergan, Inc.(the manufacturer of Natrelle Breast implants) is one of the largest manufacturers of breast implants and is currently one of the leaders in research and new products for cosmetic breast surgery. Their website has extensive information about their implants, including types, sizing, health, and safety data. In addition, they have information about the proper usage of implants along with warranty information.
Mentor: Is a division of Johnson and Johnson and is another popular implant manufacturer in the United States. Their website provides information for patients in a similar manner to Natrelle. Their information is specific to their implants regarding differences in complication rates and warranties.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS): The American Society of Plastic Surgeons seeks to uphold high standards in its member physicians, including knowledge of the latest research and adherence to the best practices of plastic surgery. The website provides information for patients as well as options for finding doctors.
For a free, private consultation about your breast augmentation surgery options in Cleveland, please call our team at The Cosmetic Surgery Center at (216) 264-8100.