In October 2006, Health Canada made a controversial move and lifted restrictions on the use of silicone implants for the public. Prior to this time, silicone implants for breast augmentation, informally known as a boob job, had only been available to a specific number of people in Canada, under the strict supervision of medical professionals since 1992.



The move dramatically changed the field of cosmetic surgery, providing a new type of implant for boob jobs that is now considered far superior in its aesthetic than its saline counterpart.

Silicone implants are not what they once were. Today's silicone implants have been adapted by breast implant manufacturers to mimic the natural feel of the breast, and features safety precautions that drastically reduce the risk of leakage and the related adverse health effects. The filling of these implants is typically made of a silicone that is in cohesive gel form. If the shell is ruptured, the filling does not run; rather, it simply stays intact. While replacement is still necessary in the event of rupture, there are relatively no adverse side effects related to its "leakage". This cohesive gel implant, available in a variety of shapes and sizes, is typically referred to as a "gummy bear" implant because of its texture.

While Health Canada has approved silicone implants for the public, it is monitoring their usage closely. There are guidelines that must be followed if a physician decides to offer silicone implants for a client's boob job. Some important ones include the following:

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Patients must be made aware that no breast implant is good for life, which includes saline implants as well.

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Manufactures of breast implants must submit a report on their products every year. This report must include findings from research as well as reports submitted by healthcare professionals on their use.

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A national breast implant registry will be set up by Health Canada in order to monitor the effectiveness and safety of boob jobs across the country.