The reservoir was the first medical port to use silicone.
Perhaps the biggest unknown is the potential impact on a wide range of health products from condoms to pacemakers that also use silicone.
He started using industrial-grade silicone, not tested on humans, rather than medical-grade material to boost profits.
The canopy uses silicone treated nylon and is seam sealed for waterproofing.
Dow Corning officials in the 1960's were dazzled by the possibilities of using silicone for implants.
"The small percentage of people who have reactions look so bad that it makes using silicone not worth the risk," he said.
Dermatologists who use silicone say it is not a problem when used properly in small amounts.
Silicone-based: Uses silicone for longer lasting wear and without fading.
According to Federal law, doctors may not use silicone, which is considered an unapproved medical device, unless they obtain a permit to experiment on humans.
He currently uses silicone for his horn implants.