Round Form-Stable Breast Implants: Diagnosis and Management of Complications

Silicone gel breast implants have been used for breast augmentation and reconstruction since 1962. Since then, multiple generations of implants have been created in an effort to improve safety and efficacy. Before 1990, silicone gel implants were characterized as having thin shells and non-cohesive gel; however, since then devices are created with cohesive silicone gel and a variety of surfaces. Despite improvements, no implant will last forever; however, these devices are safe and effective based on numerous clinical and epidemiologic studies. As with all medical devices, complications using round form-stable implants for breast reconstruction can occur and will be reviewed in this article.