Silicone breast implants: Are they safe?

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons

The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery

In order to qualify to use the silicone gel implants the surgeon has to have specific training and be tested by the company whose implants are being used. Find out how many augmentation procedures the surgeon performs a year, for how many years and if she or he has special certification for use of gel implants. Also inquire as to complication and re-operation rates and whether the surgery will be performed in a “proper” surgery center or hospital. Make sure you go over all the recommendations that have been instituted by the FDA and that you are comfortable with the follow-up. And know that this might not be your one and only breast surgery.

Dr. Reichman’s Bottom Line: If you still feel that your appearance and self sense of body attractiveness will benefit from augmentation, then go for it!

Dr. Judith Reichman, the TODAY show's medical contributor on women's health, has practiced obstetrics and gynecology for more than 20 years. You will find many answers to your questions in her latest book, "Slow Your Clock Down: The Complete Guide to a Healthy, Younger You," which is now available in paperback. It is published by William Morrow, a division of HarperCollins.

PLEASE NOTE: The information in this column should not be construed as providing specific medical advice, but rather to offer readers information to better understand their lives and health. It is not intended to provide an alternative to professional treatment or to replace the services of a physician.

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