Silicone breast implants are composed of a silicone shell filled with saline. There have been various reports in assorted media of women claiming their silicone breast implants are causing diseases such as lupus, arthritis, or even some claiming an increased risk of cancer. Aside from being able to measure trace amounts of silicone in the blood stream, there exists no evidence that can support any of these claims.
There are, however, proven cases of postoperative complications such as wound infection, and capsular contracture – an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the implant causing the tissue to harden, shrink, and cause the patient pain. Other complications include implant deflation, implant repositioning, and rupture. Furthermore, there is a small portion of the breast that cannot be seen during mammography with implants. This may complicate diagnosis of breast cancer should it arise from the blind spot. No surgery is without risk and these risks should be discussed with a plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation.