Toward Understanding Women Who Request Removal of Silicone Breast Implants

Fifty-five women were surveyed prior to explantation of their silicone breast implants regarding their reasons for having implants and their reasons for wanting them removed. Open-ended questions were used and content analysis was done to identify themes in their responses. Most of the women had implants for cosmetic reasons, with 28% having them for breast reconstruction after mastectomy. About one-third were actively or passively encouraged by their male partners, while nearly the same number reported they were influenced primarily by female friends or relatives. Regarding reasons for removal, the most commonly cited reasons were breast health problems (implants ruptured, painful or uncomfortable) cited by 59%, general health problems (48%), diagnosed with connective tissue disease (25%), and concern about long-term effects of silicone (18%). Some women blamed a broad array of health problems on the implants, and a few were angry about being given bland reassurances about the safety of the devices. However, the majority were uncertain about the role of silicone in their overall health but were hopeful that removal would restore their health and end their worries about long-term effects. The average subject was 34 years old when she had the implants to feel more attractive. Now she is 44 and more concerned about her health and her family than her physical appearance.