Augmentation mammaplasty: a review of 18 years.

We have reviewed the experience of our clinic since 1962, when the first augmentation mammaplasty using a silicone implant was performed. All-inclusive, this review of 1,567 patients has taken us through a metamorphosis of improved prostheses and refined surgical and postoperative techniques that have resulted in a significantly lower incidence of breast firmness. Since the purpose of all aesthetic surgery is to improve the quality of life of the patient through an enhancement of her or his own self-image, the results of present-day augmentation mammaplasty with the Silastic gel prosthesis indicate that this surgery is worthwhile and should be continued. It is anticipated that further improvement in results will be noted when the problem of subclinical infection is resolved.