Lawsuits Allege Silicone Breast Implants Cause Health Issues

Whether it’s liposuction or rhinoplasty, Botox or lip fillers, breast augmentations or eyelid surgeries, cosmetic procedures give many people the option to change physical features they dislike about themselves. With millions of surgical and cosmetic procedures performed in the US each year, it’s no secret plastic surgery is big business. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported that 15.9 million surgical and minimally-invasive procedures were performed in 2015, breast augmentations being the most popular with around 280,000 women and teens undergoing the surgery. Unfortunately, some of these women report their silicone gel breast implants have caused adverse health effects. 

A Brief History

Breast augmentations are usually performed using implant devices made of either saline or silicone gel. Silicone gel breast implants were introduced to the market in 1962, but by 1988, the FDA had classified them as a Class III medical device, meaning there is a higher risk associated with use. In 1992, regulators banned the use of silicone breast implants after women filed lawsuits alleging the devices caused cancer and rheumatoid arthritis, and the FDA concluded there was “inadequate information to demonstrate that breast implants were safe and effective.” By 2005, the ban was lifted by the FDA. Today, only three manufacturers are authorized to sell silicone implants. 

Legal Update

Last September, a Seattle woman filed a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and Mentor, a subsidiary of J&J. The lawsuit alleges her implants caused skin rash and extreme fatigue, in addition to lacing her bloodstream with heavy metals. Plaintiffs also allege the silicone implants may leak, causing health issues such as nausea and muscle pain.

If you feel you have been injured by a medical device, call the product liability attorneys at The Ruth Law Team. We have more than 35 years experience representing victims of defective medical products and other personal injury cases. We can be reached 24/7 at (888) 783-8378 for a free and confidential case evaluation.