Magnetic implants fall under the category of body modification along with tattoos, piercings, scarring, and other types of implants such as eyeball jewelry and 3D implants. Sound frightening? It is actually a simple process to implant the magnets and most of the individuals who experiment with this type of body modification have already dabbled in other types of sensory enhancements. The magnet works by responding to electromagnetic fields and transferring different sensations to surrounding nerves. There are basically four different types of magnetic implants, which are categorized by their intended purpose. Sensory: Implanted for the effect or feeling of the magnetic fields as they interact with the individual’s nervous system.
Sexual: This type of implant usually involves a couple who make the decision for sexual enhancement. The magnetic implant is placed inside each partner in order for the magnets to enhance the feelings of the couple’s body parts moving against each other.
Symbolic: Another variation of magnetic implants done on couples; this ritual is usually done on the hands of each partner. It represents the connection the couple has and is intended to create a magnetic bond when the two hold hands.
Functional: For all other purposes, the magnets used are not large enough to actually pick up anything larger than a paperclip or staple. Larger magnetic implants to hold or pick up items as large as screws are implanted for functional ability. This doesn’t usually work because of the fact that placing a large magnet under the skin isn’t comfortable and if an object is held against the magnet for any lengthy period, the skin tissue can die.
Effects and Sensation Depending on the type and size of the magnet, there are different sensations experienced. Magnetic fields such as security gates, microwave ovens, motors, and power cables cause sensations that can be felt by the individuals. Testimonies of a sixth sense and deep awareness of another dimension are also reported.
Procedure The actual procedure involved in implanting the magnet is simple. A small incision is made in the tip of the finger or wherever the magnet is to be placed. A pocket of tissue is opened and the magnet is placed inside. Most magnets are pellet sized so the incision is quite small. Once the magnet is in place, the incision is sutured and bandaged. The entire procedure takes less than half an hour.
Problems The compatibility of magnets and human tissue has not been thoroughly researched for long term effects such as toxicity, irreversible nerve damage, or cancer. Many who choose to have magnets placed under their skin have the implants done by non-medical individuals who also may perform body piercings and tattoos. Direct placement of the magnets into tissue causes blackening of the skin, so the magnets have to be coated with a substance such as silicone to act as a barrier or shield around the magnetic material. Unfortunately, chances for silicone tearing after the magnet is implanted are good. This can happen if the silicone coating is too thin or if the magnets are hit or bumped hard enough to cause the silicone to rip. There are many other risks and possible complications which can include implant rejection, abscesses, allergy, hypertrophy scarring, sub dermal shifting, cancer, tissue shock, and others. Instances of magnetic implant problems can be found at the following websites: Magnetic Implant Concerns and Problems Canadian Medical Interview
Online Forums and Websites: Body Modification EzineEntire website dedicated to body modification. Some portions are only suitable for those over 18. Slashdot.org Article including numerous individual opinions and comments BME WorldFree homepages and anonymous email for those in the body modification community BodyMods.org A free online community
Links to Articles and Resources: Body Modification Stories Stories and photos of body modification including magnetic implants Body Modification EzineAn online magazine and blog for all body modification Cyberpunk Review NPR Article Alternative Looks Website BME EzineFunctional magnetic implants National Review of Medicine Body modification divides doctors along ethical lines Flickr Surgery PhotosJournalist for Wired Magazine having magnetic implant removed due to complications Body Mod GlossaryOnline glossary of all terms related to body modification, including magnetic implants Jive Magazine Link between body modification and suicide Newsweek Magazine Body modification, tattoos, and piercings throughout history