Silicon and Silicone Levels in Patients with Silicone Implants

Although a potential link between silicone gel breast implants and autoimmune connective tissue disease has been suggested, none has been proven. The potential role of silicone as an immune adjuvant remains very controversial. Currently available techniques do not easily allow precise measurements of silicone in tissues. However, all compounds containing silicon (which would include silicone) can be measured accurately. The present study was designed to measure silicon levels in the fibrous capsules of patients with silicone-gel breast implants, saline breast implants and silicone inflatable penile prostheses. Baseline control silicon levels were obtained from the breast tissue of patients undergoing breast reduction, who had no exposure to breast implants. All silicon measurements were carried out using atomic absorption spectrometry with a graphite furnace.