Article courtesy of WJZ/CBS Baltimore, July 2011.
FDA Study About Silicone Breast Implants Raises Concerns
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) — A new warning from the Food and Drug Administration about silicone breast implant complications has left some women with questions.
Andrea Fujii explains whether there’s a need for concern.
Research from the FDA shows one in five women with silicone breast implants will need to have them removed within 10 years after surgery.
Dr. Michael Cohen of Belcara Health says women shouldn’t panic.
“That actually leaves 80 percent of women in that study being perfectly happy and not needing removal at all,” Cohen said. “Even though it’s not intended to be a lifetime, I think we can say with certainty that they should last for a very, very long time.”
The FDA says complications include hardening of the area around the implant, rupture, or asymmetry. But the data does not indicate the implants cause cancer.
Felise Stoller got silicone implants one year ago and knows she may have to replace them at some point.
“As personal as it is, it is one of those things that you debate and weighs the risks,” Stoller said.
For Stoller, the benefits outweigh any risks.
“I have had no complications and have been very happy,” Stoller said.
So what should women with silicone implants do to protect themselves? The FDA recommends women get routine MRIs to detect any ruptures and see a doctor if there are any complications.
In 2006, the FDA reapproved silicone breast implants after they were banned due to the risks they posed.
Watch Dr. Cohen’s interview video clip here! http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2011/07/14/fda-study-about-silicone-breast-implants-raises-concerns/
Dr. Michael D. Cohen
Medical Director, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Breast Specialist
View Profile