Saline breast implants identification - how can I find out what type I have?

Question

I had Saline Implant surgery in 1978-1979 (when I was 23 years old) in Belleview Hospital NYC thru the Plastic Surgery Clinic. At the time I was never given any information regarding the size and/or brand. How can I find out what type I have? Also I can’t seem to find any info on what implants were available at that time. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for the question.
Nowadays, all patients who undergo breast implant surgery receive a card with implant information which states the type of implant and volume. If you were not give the card at the time of surgery, the next step would be obtaining a detailed Operative Report from your procedure and/or surgeon which should have breast implant information documented as well.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Senior_BII_warrior,
you can try to contact the clinic and get information. However, it is unlikely that they will have records that old. Also, it is recommended that you replace your implants since they are very old. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The specifics about your implants probably no longer exists. You could try the medical records department at that hospital and  see if they kept records of that age. Most do not. Dow Corning was the main company at that time, but other companies were present too.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Back in the 70's, there were few choices...silicone (1962) and saline (1964). 
Textured implants were introduced in 1986. Polyurethane implants came out in 1989. 
It's a long shot, but you might contact the hospital's medical record department and see if they still have any record of the procedure.
Best wishes...

Saline breast implants identification - how can I find out what type I have?

Answers (4)

Answer: What breast implants were available in 1978-1979

Answer: What breast implants were available in 1978-1979

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Saline breast implants identification - how can I find out what type I have?

Answers (4)

Answer: What breast implants were available in 1978-1979

Answer: What breast implants were available in 1978-1979

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.