Creating a Prototype for a Bullet-Resistant Implant: Application in Breast Prosthetics

This research delves into the potential enhancement of body ballistic resistance, with a particular focus on subdermal implants, notably breast implants. The objective of our research is to evaluate the impact of a 9 mm Luger or 9 × 19 mm ammunition on a bullet-resistant prototype implant. Given previous reports on the protective capabilities of silicone implants, their ballistic protective properties were explored. The widespread use of silicone breast implants necessitates a comprehensive assessment of their ballistic capabilities from both protective and forensic perspectives. A prototype implant based on ultra-high molecular weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) was designed and was subjected to a 9 × 19 mm ammunition. Different thicknesses of small surface armour packs with diverse backings were examined to assess potential damage and back face signatures. Additionally, the role of silicone breast implants in ballistic protection was investigated. These experiments were conducted to provide a thorough understanding of the protective and forensic aspects of these materials. The prototype effectively mitigated the threat, causing minimal indentation in the plasticine witness material, measuring less than 44 mm, in accordance with guidelines. Furthermore, standard silicone breast implants offered minimal protection, which challenges existing literature. It is evident that the prototype implant holds promise for enhancing impact resistance, with significant potential for ballistic protection. The observed limited protective effect of standard silicone implants requires further investigation, casting doubt on their efficacy in ballistics. This underscores the importance of ongoing research and a nuanced approach to assessing the role of silicone implants in ballistics.