Researchers at the Autoimmunity Mosaic Laboratory of St. Petersburg State University have observed a potential link between silicone breast implants and immune system changes that may affect the thyroid gland. The findings were shared with media outlets in St. Petersburg and with the academic community at SPbSU, where the study originated.
The study followed 106 women who underwent breast surgery, comparing those with silicone implants to those who had the operation without implants. Assessments of immune and endocrine function occurred before the procedure, then at three months, six months, and twelve months afterward. The goal was to track any shifts in immune activity and thyroid-related markers over time.
Key observations included a rise in autoantibodies targeting the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, a principal regulator of thyroid growth and activity. This increase was detected only in the group that received silicone implants, while the nonimplant group did not show this pattern. The data also confirmed an early postoperative rise in prolactin and TSH levels in some participants. Lead author and plastic surgeon Valery Zolotykh, a graduate of St. Petersburg State University, noted that the implant group appeared to develop heightened autoimmunity against these receptors.
Autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Graves disease are associated with higher levels of autoantibodies to the TSH receptor. In the current study, no clear cases of Graves disease or autoimmune thyroiditis emerged within the first year after surgery. Nonetheless, researchers urge thyroid screening and testing for TSH receptor autoantibodies before undergoing implant procedures. They also recommend ongoing thyroid monitoring for six months postoperatively to capture any evolving changes.
Plans for the research include extended follow up to better understand longer term health outcomes, including psychological well being, over a five year period after implantation or the alternative procedure. The investigators emphasize that the choice of implant procedure should consider individual risk factors and medical history, with careful discussion between patients and clinicians about potential immune and endocrine implications.
Silicone breast implants are described as soft regions filled with silicone gel or saline. While they remain widely used in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, their safety profile continues to be debated within the medical community, and ongoing study is essential to clarify any long term health effects that may arise for some patients.
In related commentary, other researchers have explored new risk factors for cancers in men, underscoring the broader importance of studying how systemic immune changes can intersect with various organ systems. This broader context helps frame the current work as part of a larger effort to understand how implants and similar interventions may influence immune and endocrine balance in diverse populations.