Introduction: Breast implants are integral to plastic surgery, with approximately 20 000 procedures performed in Australia annually. This presentation provides a comprehensive review of the history of breast implants. Findings: Early 20th-century breast implant experiments involved varied materials, from ox cartilage to rubber to injectable glycerine. Not until 1962, when Cronin and Gerow introduced the first-generation silicone implant, made of a smooth thick silicone shell and medium viscosity silicone filler, did satisfactory outcomes emerge. To combat high rates of capsular contracture, Ashley introduced a polyurethane coating in 1969, which has since fallen out of favour due to the risk of polyurethane degradation into carcinogens. Saline-filled implants of 1964 allowed for a smaller incision but suffered from an unnatural texture and deflation. Second-generation silicone implants had an improved feel but capsular contracture persisted and the risk of silicone-bleed and rupture increased. Third-generation silicone implants reduced rupture rates but were mired with controversy as they were falsely linked with connective tissue disorders. Fourth- and fifth-generations improved gel cohesivity and surface texture which reduced rates of capsular contracture, gel-bleed and rupture, but are linked with breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Finally, sixth-generation silicone implants of the early 2010s have a bio-mimetic surface to reduce BIA-ALCL risk, while mitigating capsular contracture risk. Conclusion: The history of breast implants reflects a relentless pursuit of innovation despite setbacks and provides insights in the quest for safer and more effective surgical devices and practice.