Gummy Bear Implants Offer a Stable Shape and Added Safety
Cohesive silicone-gel breast implants are designed to maintain their shape better than traditional silicone implants, giving them an appearance many believe to be supremely natural-looking. Also known as gummy bear implants, these implants are filled with a form-stable gel that will not leak in the rare event of trauma to the implant. For the benefits of their consistent shape and safety features, gummy bear implants have grown in popularity since being approved by the FDA in 2012. Dr. Oren Lerman in Manhattan, NY, can help you determine if a gummy bear implant, or another implant type, is the best choice for your breast reconstruction or breast augmentation procedure.
The Safety of Cohesive Silicone-gel Implants
Cohesive silicone-gel implants consist of an outer lining that is several layers strong as a means to keep the gel securely inside. As an added precaution, the inner gel is a cohesive material that remains bound together, even if the implant breaks or ruptures. It is this feature that gives the implant its informal “gummy bear” name, since much like the candy, the gel remains intact even when cut in half.
Providing a Stable Shape
Gummy bear implants are less likely to shift as your body moves. The gel remains distributed to its designed proportions for a consistent shape. The implants also have a shape-memory which helps them return to their original contours when moved. This can dramatically reduce the risk of the implant folding or rippling.
Due to its stable shape, some consider the cohesive silicone-gel implant to appear more lifelike than other implant types.
Due to its stable shape, some patients consider the cohesive silicone-gel implant to appear more lifelike than other implant types. On the other hand, some feel that the implant does not move like a natural breast. For example, the implant will remain full on the upper part of the chest, even when lying down, unlike natural breast tissue which will move down or outwards.
The Implant's Longevity
While it can be said that a gummy bear implant will not leak if damaged, the implant has not been on the market long enough to determine how long it will last. These implants are considered to be more solid in their design than other implant types. However, all implant materials will eventually fatigue over time. The longevity of these implants is yet to be accurately assessed.
Softness, Incision, and Costs
Given that gummy bear implants are filled with a form-holding gel, they are considered to feel firmer than traditional silicone implants and saline implants. Also, placing cohesive silicone-gel implants into the breast pocket requires a longer incision, usually an inframammary incision along the bottom of the breasts.
Another consideration for many breast augmentation patients is cost. Gummy bear implants are more expensive than other implant choices on the market. Dr. Lerman and his team will talk to you about your specific costs during your initial consultation.
Are Gummy Bear Implants Right for You?
The best way to feel confident about your implant choice is by discussing the benefits and disadvantages of the different implant types with a respected cosmetic surgeon. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Oren Lerman today by calling (212) 434-6980, or booking your appointment online.
