Three silicone and saline solution-filled breast implants, one fitted with air valve, unsigned, Europe, 2003. Supplied by Mentor Medical Limited. Used for cosmetic surgery - one for demonstration, not implant (see note).

Two different types of breast implants are shown here, one containing silicone gel and the other saline (a salt solution). Breast implants are used for cosmetic breast enlargement or for reconstructive purposes, for example for women who have undergone surgery for breast cancer.

Silicone breast implants were first introduced in the 1960s in the United States and there have long been some medical concerns over their safety. Over 10,000 women have breast implants fitted in the United Kingdom each year. These particular implants are made by Mentor Medical Ltd.