Soya Oil Breast Implants (Trilucent)

Soya Oil Implant Profile

Outer shell: Silicone

Inner fill: Soy oil (Trilipid 6)

Shape(s) available: Currently not on the market

Cost for implants: Currently not on the market

Techniques for placement: Currently not on the market

Advantages: Risks/disadvantages: Allow for clear mammogram readings because the fill is radiolucent (saline and silicone gel are not). Soybean oil was believed to be safer and less toxic if the implants leak or rupture.

Disadvantages: Trilucent breast implants were introduced in 1995 in the United Kingdom. In the U.K., about 5,000 women received the implants, and studies showed that the soya oil can leak and infiltrate body tissue. Women who experienced leaks reported inflammation and swelling, but as soon as the implants were removed, the symptoms subsided. The company that manufactured the Trilucent breast implants voluntarily recalled the implants, and no further trials are known to be on the schedule.

About soya oil: Trilipid 6 contains highly refined medical-grade triglyceride fats extracted from soybean oil; it is purified soy oil.