What Information Will a Breast Implant Serial Number Give Me?

Depending on the manufacturer, you can obtain alot of information about the implant. This includes size, shape, volume, dimensions, fabrication, etc. This allows us to select a new implant that more closely represents the same shape if that is desired or to change specific contours that you desire. In some instanes, this may allow for replacement of the implant under the provisions of the warranty.

In Spain, and in Europe (Euroepean Union) from 2006 is a higher demand on assuring a reliable "PROSTHESE DATABASE".

We consider that i'ts very important to record all data concerming an implant surgery in the berast.

Prosthese "STYLE" (or model), MANUFACTURER, SIZE, MEASUREMENTS. SERIAL NUMBER and LOT NUMBER will give us exact information oh where, who and why this surgery was performed, apart from the fact of when and where those implants had been manufactured.

Unfortunetely, 20 years ago, these data were not recorded...

If the implant manufacturer maintains data, you would be able to determine the size and type of implant. Generally, if you had the serial number, you would have all the other pertinent information. The manufacturers told patients and physicians that they were creating a database on silicone implants. However, I learned earlier this year that they stopped maintaining this information and did not notify doctors. There has recently been a demand that they forward data to the FDA. Physicians are required to maintain medical records for 10 years. However, I have kept all my breast implant files since going into private practice in 1984. Now that I am transferring records into a computerized scanning program, all records will be kept indefinitely. Patients should ask their plastic surgeons for implant data and keep it in a secure location. Excellent question!

I am not sure if 20 years ago they had serial numbers.  But, without that information at the minimum, I don ot know how you would get the information.  Now, patients are usually logged in with the manufacturer for tracking purposes.

I was never asked about this until the horrific murder of the model out in LA who was identified by the serial numbers on her implants. Serial numbers have not been used for that long and I would doubt even if you know the manufacturer and the doctor who performed the surgery you would be able to know what type of implant you had and the size of the implants.
If one implant is leaking the other one may be intact. If this is the case when you have your surgery the doctor can determine the size of the intact implant by doing a volume displacement test. In all probability your implants and your body have changed over 20 years and you will probably need different size implants anyhow. You may even need a lift at this point in time.
Discuss your concerns and desires with your surgeon and make sure you are getting saline or silicone, whichever you prefer. If your implants are over the muscle you may want to have them under to place them in a virgin pocket without scar tissue. Good luck whichever way you choose to go.
Steven Schuster MD FACS