Since their invention over 45 years ago, silicone breast implants have undergone continuous study and improvement by scientists, researchers and physicians. Development marched forward even during the years when the devices were subject to a ban in the United States – testament to the popularity of the implants with women who were able to get them (in Europe and under special circumstances in the U.S.) and the faith researchers and manufacturers have in the safety and superiority of silicone. To learn more about the latest silicone gel breast implant in Los Angeles, you can receive a FREE consultation with one of our surgeons when you request your appointment online and schedule during select times they have set aside exclusively for Web visitors.

Five Silicone Implant Generations
The silicone implant invented in 1961 by Dow Corning researchers Thomas Cronin and Frank Gerow became the foundation for the first generation of breast implants. The early devices had a seamed rubber shell filled with a viscous form of silicone gel. They were firm to the touch and had a teardrop shape. Interestingly, it was thought at the time that the implants needed to be attached to existing tissue in order to stay put, so these early models featured Dacron or silicone mesh patches for this purpose (these were later discontinued). During the several years Dow Corning made these implants they refined their design, creating a thinner, seamless shell, for example.

The main complaints about the first silicone implants were twofold – they were too firm to the touch and caused a high incidence of capsular contracture. As a result, the second generation of implants, designed in the early 1970's, had thinner shells and more liquid silicone filling. These implants not only had a tendency to rupture, they also were found to leak silicone through their shells. These were the devices most