Las Vegas Plastic Surgeons on 50th Anniversary of Silicone Implants

LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwire - Oct 10, 2012) - This year marks the 50th anniversary for the silicone implant. Despite its 14-year ban in the U.S. and Canada from 1992 until 2006, silicone remains the most popular implant option and was used in 69% of breast augmentation procedures in 2011, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Drs. W. Tracy Hankins and Samuel M. Sohn, both board-certified plastic surgeons in Las Vegas, say trends at their practice are even greater skewed towards silicone than those of the ASAPS statistics. Dr. Sohn reports:

"Silicone breast implants are a very safe option and have advanced a long way since their initial introduction into plastic surgery in 1962. In our practice, we have seen a strong resurgence and interest in the newest generation of silicone implants. Demand is so strong at this point, that over 95% of our patients choose to have a silicone rather than a saline implant."

When asked how silicone implants have changed since their initial introduction, Dr. Sohn replied, "Silicone implants have advanced over the years, as the implant manufacturers have moved towards a more cohesive device -- this means that the silicone formulation has become more solid, rather than liquid in consistency. Some have even used the analogy of a 'gummy bear implant' to describe the consistency of these newer generation, form-stable implants. This translates to an easier and safer removal if an implant ruptures, while still maintaining a soft, natural consistency and feel."

When performed by the right hands, Dr. Hankins says silicone breast implants can produce natural-looking results and aesthetically enhance the contour of a woman's body. Regarding candidacy for the implant, Dr. Sohn says, "In general, any woman twenty-two and older can be a candidate for a silicone implant. However, it is especially beneficial for women who are looking for a more natural feel to their breasts after implantation. In addition, implant visibility is often decreased with silicone implants, a benefit for individuals who do not have much breast tissue or body fat."

Asked if he would ever recommend silicone over saline in particular cases, Dr. Sohn answered, "In certain instances, I definitely recommend silicone over saline. In particular, in those cases where I recommend placing implants on top of the chest muscle, I like to proceed with a silicone implant to help reduce the incidence of implant visibility. For women who prefer a natural feel to their breasts after surgery, the silicone implant is the superior choice."

A golden anniversary is a momentous milestone for any technique being used in surgery, says Dr. Sohn. He adds that he believes silicone implants will continue to evolve with advancements in plastic surgery just as they have for the past 50 years. Because of surgical advancements, Dr. Sohn says patients should always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon when interested in a breast augmentation using silicone implants, adding that qualified surgeons have the training and expertise to perform the latest, most effective techniques in order to achieve each patient's individual goals.

About W. Tracy Hankins, M.D.

A graduate of the Indiana University Medical School, Dr. W. Tracy Hankins is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He has a special interest in breast surgery and injectables and has trained under some of the most innovative minds in cosmetic plastic surgery. Dr. Hankins has appeared on television shows and news segments as a guest expert, and he frequently lectures to his medical peers on state-of-the-art techniques and procedures. He is the Chief of Plastic Surgery at the Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

About Samuel M. Sohn, M.D.

Dr. Samuel M. Sohn earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond and is fellowship-trained in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery from The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary. He is dedicated to quality, natural results for his patients and has a specific interest in cosmetic breast surgery, body contouring, and facial rejuvenation. Dr. Sohn is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and is a Board Certified diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is a Staff Surgeon at Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center in Las Vegas, NV, and is an Assistant Adjunct Professor of Plastic Surgery at Touro University.

Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates is located in Henderson at 60 North Pecos Road Henderson, Nevada 89074, and in Las Vegas at 2150 S. Rainbow Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89146. Both offices can be reached by phone at 702-948-7595. Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn can also be contacted online via hankinsplasticsurgery.com and facebook.com/PlasticSurgeryLasVegas.