Many patients considering breast augmentation often ask what gummy bear implants are. Gummy bear implants are a new type of implants that have revolutionized breast augmentation surgery. Previously, women desiring to achieve bigger breast implants had only two options: silicone implants and saline implants. Now, a third and better option is available in the form of the gummy bear implant.
Also known as Highly Cohesive Silicone Gel, gummy bear implants are very stable breast implants that come with the safety of saline breast implants and natural results of silicone breast implants. Gummy bear implants are made of a textured silicone shell filled with a highly stable silicone gel.
The implants are called gummy bears because when they are cut in half, they still retain their original shape, just like a gummy bear candy. Examples of the gummy bear implant include the Mentor® MemoryShape and Natrelle® 410. These breast implants are firmer and flexible at the same time.
Within the gummy bear breast implants, there are two options: a teardrop shape to achieve additionally natural breast shape, and custom-tailored implants available in different heights and profiles for your unique anatomy.
So, what are the pros and cons of the gummy bear a.k.a. cohesive gel implants?
Gummy bear implants are highly cohesive, meaning they retain their shape and feel supple. Their edges naturally mix into the breast tissue, decreasing the risk of implant rippling and palpability. They deliver very natural results.
The silicone gel does not move from one side of the implant to another, which means the breasts will not appear like a water-filled balloon, which often happens with saline implants. Furthermore, there is no risk of implant leakage. The shell may rupture, but the risk is relatively low. Even if a rupture happens, the gel will stay in place and not move out of the shell.
The risk of capsular contracture associated with the gummy bear implant is lower than that of silicone and saline implants, according to a number of studies. Capsular contracture happens when the scar tissue tightens around the implants, changing the shape of the breasts and creating physical pain for the patient.
On the downside, gummy bear implants are highly stable, which means they have a tendency to overshadow the actual or desired breast shape. The incision required for placing the gummy bear implant is relatively larger than that required for the saline implant. Furthermore, there is a risk the implant may rotate, which can distort the breast shape.