ABSTRACT
As our interest in the silicone gel breast implant controversy grew, we began to talk to some of the doctors involved. We had become interested initially because two plastic surgeons wanted our advice. We had talked with them at length. As we sought patients to interview, we began an informal dialogue with a rheumatologist. It was clear from the outset that these physicians differed in what they saw happening to patients. Because patients look to physicians to interpret both the scientific information and the patients’ own experiences, the views of physicians are essential in understanding this controversy; both how the uncertainty and contradictions have developed and how they have affected patients.
