Excess Mortality From Suicide and Other External Causes of Death Among Women With Cosmetic Breast Implants

The authors extended by 8 years an earlier follow-up mortality study of 3527 Swedish women with cosmetic breast implants. The mean follow-up period was 18.7 years. Overall, 175 deaths occurred versus 133.4 expected. Statistically significant 3-fold excesses of suicide & deaths from alcohol or drug dependence were observed as well as an excess of deaths from accidents & injuries consistent with substance abuse or dependence. The increased risk of suicide was not apparent until 10 years after implantation. The excess of deaths from suicide, drug & alcohol abuse & dependence, & other related causes suggests significant underlying psychiatric morbidity among these women. (25 refs.)