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When a woman tells a man she has sprung a leak, it is possible that she may be referring to more than the plumbing. Women, now more than ever, can actually be referring to their ruptured breast implants. Yes, ruptured breast implants. This can lead to an obvious health issue.

Ever since this implant surgery was first attempted in the 1890s, many complications have occurred. With time, some “progress” was achieved, and in 1962 the first breast implants on an American were silicone. Because they did not appear to be life-like, a new silicone was produced in the 1970s. Unfortunately, these had a tendency to break more often and once broken, total removal was difficult or, in some circumstances, impossible. To help ease suffering and lower health concerns, saline implants began to replace the silicone gel in the 1990s. Although this seemed like a great idea at the time, consumers soon discovered that saline was fragile, heavy and came with an audible “sloshing” sound. Now, surgeons are suggesting going back to a “new” cohesive gel silicone. But what makes these implants so new and improved? After they rupture, they are designed to maintain structural integrity. Now, ladies, does this seem like an “improved” implant to you? Well, to some degree, yes. But, I would consider a better new and improved implant one that doesn’t rupture at all. Wouldn’t you agree?

Even with the information and resources regarding ruptured implants of both the new and the old silicone, many women still undergo the surgery.

According to Dr. Diana Zuckerman and Dr. Rachel Flynn, “In 2000, 203,310 women underwent breast implant surgery for augmentation and 82,975 women underwent implant surgery for reconstruction after mastectomy.” However, these statistics do not accurately show whether these were only the first surgeries undergone by patients. Further studies from the Coalition of Silicone Survivors have shown that the average life expectancy for silicone implants is four to seven years, and for saline implants it’s even less. Multiple surgeries must be undergone in order to keep the implants looking their best. Thus, all implants – even the new cohesive gel implants – have expiration dates.

Fortunately for those who have breast implants, many women are happy. They say they have achieved the emotional confidence they need to look and feel their best.

For those who are indecisive about getting breast implants, it is important to be aware of all health issues that may be a result of your decision. When having a breast implant consultation, ask your doctor for a package insertion. This will inform you of some common risks and concerns every woman should know prior to their surgery. This important information is usually only given out upon request.

The actual surgery for any kind of breast implant can eventually lead to problems of implant ruptures, repeat surgeries, capsular contracture, calcium deposits, changes in nipple sensation, interference with mammography, difficulty in breast feeding and increase in autoimmune disease. These are just a few that are listed within the package insertion. However, although infection, hemorrhaging and death have occurred with the surgery, they are not mentioned within the package. Also, the physical effects of firmness, discomfort, disfigurement, implant displacement and scarring within the breasts can occur.

The fact of the matter is that every time a woman goes under the knife for breast implants, she acts as a guinea pig with the hope of easing her personal insecurities. Evidence proves that all implants, including the new cohesive gel implants, are dangerous to the body, either during insertion or later. So, for those willing to risk their health, be sure that your “favorable data” on breast implants gives you a satisfying definition of what being “safe” truly means. To all of my ladies who appreciate their bodies and know how to work with what they have, you go girls!

Bal is a second-year communication studies student.

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