Chicago Plastic Surgeon

While rumors have been swirling about links between breast implants and cancer for years, extensive studies have failed to show any compelling evidence that modern breast implants play any role in either causing or preventing cancer.

Some recent studies have seemed to show correlation between some types of silicone breast implants and certain types of cancer. In particular, women with silicone breast implants were shown to have up to 21% greater risk of lung cancers than women without implants. These results, however, do not necessarily show a clear correlation between breast implants and cancer.

By the same token, there has been little medical evidence that breast implants prevent cancer, either. Some early studies that evaluated risks of breast cancer did show 50 to 60% lower rates of breast cancer in women who had breast implants. However, these studies were limited, and did not include enough detailed data or long-term follow-up to reach any reliable conclusions that implants actually prevent cancer.

We suggest that every woman considering breast implants carefully evaluate her situation and individual risk factors before reaching a decision. While we do not believe there is cause for excess alarm regarding links between breast implants and cancer, we cannot rule out a correlation without further studies.

To learn more about your plastic surgery options if you live in the Chicago, Illinois area, please contact cosmetic surgeon Dr. Otto J. Placik today to schedule your confidential consultation.