Plastic surgeons analyze impact of silicone

ASPS survey forecasts breast implant market

May 24, 2007
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)

Just over half of ASPS Member Surgeons predict they will perform up to 25% more breast augmentations in the next 12 months and that 40% or more of all patients will choose silicone implants. These and other findings appear in a new report from an American Society of Plastic Surgeons' survey about the impact of the reintroduction of silicone breast implants.

Breast augmentation became the top surgical cosmetic procedure in 2006 with an increase of 13% over 2005. Supporting this trend is the fact that 71% of plastic surgeons perform, on average, more than five breast augmentations a month. Further, 75% expect 3% to 10% of their patients will at some time replace their existing saline implants for silicone for purely cosmetic reasons.

"Plastic surgeons are receiving positive feedback from their breast augmentation patients since the approval of silicone implants. These interactions are creating an upbeat outlook for the future use of silicone implants," said ASPS President Roxanne Guy, M.D.

ASPS Member Surgeons agree the implants are safe, but some believe their patients may still have concerns about their safety. Four out of five members responded that their personal concern for the safety of the implants was the least significant barrier preventing their patients from choosing silicone implants. 45% of members said their patients' concerns about safety might be a significant barrier. However, 60% of the members believe cost would be the most significant barrier preventing some patients from choosing silicone implants.

"Each patient has different needs, which are addressed during a consultation with their plastic surgeon," said Dr. Guy. "Patients now have a wonderful advantage because they can choose between saline and silicone - a decision they can make together with their plastic surgeon."

Editor's note: The survey regarding silicone breast implants was sent to a random sample of ASPS Member Surgeons which resulted in a 20% response rate.