“Women should feel assured that the FDA continues to believe that currently marketed silicone breast implants are safe.”

—DR WILLIAM MAISEL, chief scientist for the FDA's Center for Devices, following two days of discussion on the safety of silicone breast implants. In 2006, the FDA lifted a 14-year ban on silicone-gel implants, with the requirement that manufacturers would conduct post-approval safety studies. The companies have so far done a poor job tracking women. The FDA will now work with manufacturers to boost patient participation in studies, and leave silicone implants on the market. Though considered safe, silicone implants have significant complications: ruptures, hardening around the implants, need for removal, scarring, pain, infection and asymmetry. [via The New York Times]