March 1-31

National Breast Implant Awareness Month

October is National Breast Implant Awareness Month! Join the conversation about safety, health, and body positivity.

Yearly Date
March 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

March 1 marks the start of National Breast Implant Awareness Month – a time to bring attention to the importance of breast health and reconstruction options for those who have undergone mastectomy surgery. This month was created by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 1998 to educate and empower women about their choices when it comes to breast reconstruction. It's a time to celebrate advancements in technology and honor those who have overcome breast cancer. So let's raise awareness, support each other, and spread positivity this month!

National Breast Implant Awareness Month Timeline

1961
First Silicone Breast Implant
Dr. Thomas Cronin and Dr. Frank Gerow, plastic surgeons from Texas, developed the first silicone gel-filled breast implant in collaboration with the Dow Corning Corporation.
1976
FDA's Regulatory Authority Expansion
The FDA's authority is expanded to include the regulation of medical devices, including breast implants.
1992
FDA Moratorium on Silicone Implants
The FDA placed a moratorium on silicone gel-filled breast implants due to health concerns. Conditions for use were set while further studies were conducted.
1998
Breast Implant Awareness Month Inception
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons created National Breast Implant Awareness Month to educate and empower women about breast reconstruction options.
2006
Resumption of Silicone Implants
FDA lifts the moratorium on silicone gel-filled breast implants after extensive research and trials.
2011
Discovery of ALCL Risk
The FDA announced a possible association between breast implants and the development of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

How to Celebrate National Breast Implant Awareness Month

1

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to learn about breast implants and their potential risks and benefits. Share this information with your friends and family to spread awareness.

2

Attend a support group

If you or someone you know has breast implants, consider attending a support group to connect with others and share experiences. This can also be a great way to learn more about the topic.

3

Organize a charity event

Use the month to raise funds and awareness for breast implant-related causes. You can organize a charity event such as a walk or run, or even a bake sale, with all proceeds going towards a chosen organization.

4

Share your story

If you have had breast implants, consider sharing your story with others to inspire and educate. This can be through a blog post, social media, or speaking at an event.

5

Get a mammogram

In addition to regular self-exams, make sure to schedule a mammogram to ensure the health of your breasts. Use this month as a reminder to prioritize your breast health.

Why National Breast Implant Awareness Month is Important

A

It raises awareness for breast health

National Breast Implant Awareness Month not only educates women about the risks and benefits of breast implants, but also brings attention to the importance of overall breast health. This includes self-examination, regular check-ups, and early detection of any irregularities.

B

It promotes body positivity and acceptance

Breast implants are a personal choice that should be made without judgment or pressure from society. National Breast Implant Awareness Month encourages individuals to feel confident in their own bodies, regardless of their decision to have cosmetic surgery.

C

It supports and empowers breast cancer survivors

For many women who have undergone mastectomies due to breast cancer, breast implants can help restore their sense of femininity and confidence. National Breast Implant Awareness Month recognizes this aspect and celebrates these strong and courageous survivors.

National Breast Implant Awareness Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 28
Tuesday
2024
Feb 29
Thursday
2025
Feb 28
Friday
2026
Feb 28
Saturday
2027
Feb 28
Sunday