everyday living Surface of Newly Developed Breast Implant Discourages The Return of Cancer Cells May 23, 2012 Written By: BreastImplants.org Published On May 23, 2012 According to The American Cancer Society, nearly 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with some form of breast cancer during their lifetime. As part of their treatments, many of the women will undergo mastectomies to remove cancerous cells and the surrounding healthy tissue in order to prevent the cancer from spreading. Please Read This: Breast Augmentation Improves Self-Esteem And Sex Life A 2012 study published in Nanotechnology discusses a new breast implant that researchers at Brown University created specifically for patients recovering from mastectomies. The new implant is covered with a polymer, or plastic, that deters cancer cells from redeveloping in the breast tissue without any further chemical or radiological treatment. While discouraging cancerous growth, the polymer simultaneously encourages the development of healthy breast cells. How Do The Implants Discourage Cancerous Growth? The implants have tiny, microscopic bumps that are 23 nanometers high, made from the polymers covering the surface of the implant. Research is still underway to understand more of the preventive action; however scientists hypothesize that the rigid, inflexible nature of cancer cells allows the bumps to act as a barrier, blocking the harmful cells from attaching to surrounding healthy tissue. Perhaps this is why Thomas Webster, one of the lead researchers on the program, described the surface as a “bed of nails” for the cancerous cells. Healthy cells, conversely, are much more pliable, and thus have no issues navigating the new surface. You Might Like This: Best Apparel For Breast Implants When Will The Implants Be Available? As of 2012, the implants are not yet ready to be tested in clinical trials, but all of the materials they contain have been previously approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Webster predicts clinical trials with human subjects will begin in five to ten years. Recommended Articles everyday living What Will I Look Like? Women Want Answers Before Undergoing Cancer Treatment everyday living Is Your Bra Ruining Your Implants? everyday living Time For A Change? Replacing Your Implant Over Time surgeons How To Ask For The Look You Want everyday living Breast Augmentation Throughout History Most Searched Questions What size is right for me? How much does breast augmentation cost? What should I ask my plastic surgeon? How do I find a plastic surgeon? Tags: everyday living implant medical device preventative reconstruction cancer Comments Learn More: Best Apparel For Breast Implants Nipple Piercings Before And After Breast Augmentation Surgery Why Home Breast Exams Matter Dealing With Leakage In Breast Implants Plane Travel With Your New Implants Is Your Bra Ruining Your Implants?