The first breast augmentation using silicone implants was performed in 1962 on Timmy Jean Lindsay. The silicone implants were developed by Thomas Cronin and Frank Jones.
Before silicone implants, early methods included liquid paraffin injections in the 1890s and autologous fat transfer in the 1920s and 1930s. These methods often led to complications such as migration, lumps, and misshapen breasts.
Breast augmentation became popular in the 1950s due to the post-war cultural shift towards a more voluptuous look, inspired by figures like Marilyn Monroe and Diana Dors. This trend fueled demand for larger breasts in both the US and the UK.
Liquid paraffin injections, used in the 1890s, were highly risky as the paraffin could migrate, irritate surrounding tissue, and cause lumps, sores, and misshapen breasts. Additionally, paraffin is flammable, posing further dangers.
The PIP breast implant scandal involved the use of non-medical grade silicone, similar to mattress filler, in breast implants. These implants were prone to rupture, leading to liquid silicone leaking into the body, causing severe health issues such as silicone migration to lymph nodes, soreness, and even cancer.
Modern fat transfer for breast augmentation involves removing fat through a procedure similar to liposuction, then using a centrifugal machine to separate fat cells from stem cells. The fat is recombined with a higher ratio of stem cells, which helps anchor the fat and prevent it from being reabsorbed or becoming necrotic.
Risks include capsular contraction (scar tissue hardening around the implant), implant rupture, infection, and a rare condition called BIA-ALCL (breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma). Patients also face potential changes in nipple sensation and scarring.
Women often choose breast reduction surgery to alleviate physical discomfort such as backache, neck pain, and skin irritation under the breasts. Additionally, large breasts can make exercise difficult and limit clothing options.
The future of breast augmentation may involve advancements in fat transfer techniques using stem cells to improve fat retention and reduce risks. Innovations to prevent capsular contraction and improve implant longevity are also being explored.
Breast augmentation has shifted from being a procedure primarily associated with celebrities and high-status individuals to a more accessible and mainstream option. Advances in technology, financing options, and cultural acceptance have contributed to its democratization.
Cosmetic procedures are a huge part of (most of our) worlds.
With new ones seemingly cropping up all the time, the boob job feels like an old classic.
What are the origins of the boob job? Who had the first ever one? And how has it changed over time?
Today we're revisiting a conversation Kate had with Professor Ruth Holliday and cosmetic surgeon Professor Vikram Devaraj, to find out more about this bumpy history.
This episode was edited by Annie Coloe & Tom Delargy. The producer was Sophie Gee. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.
All music from Epidemic Sounds/All3 Media.
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Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.