Gel implants promise to give breast augmentation patients a more natural look with fewer complications.
Shape-stable implants, also known as gummy bear or teardrop implants, are a compelling option for women seeking a low-risk breast augmentation technique, with a wide range of natural-looking shapes and sizes to choose from.
What are cohesive gel implants?
Cohesive gel implants are constructed of highly cohesive silicone gel, with a layered silicone outer shell that is thicker than the gel filler inside.
This design gives the implants a firm consistency and the ability to maintain their shape even if their shell is broken. These qualities, similar to those of edible gummy candy, give the implants their unconventional name (gummy bears).
Compared to classic circular silicone or saline implants, the teardrop shape of gummy bear implants offers a more natural projection at the bottom and additional reduction at the top.
The three major manufacturers of cohesive gel implants – Sientra, Allergan and Mentor – offer a variety of shapes to best suit patient needs.
The popular Sientra breast implants come in five shapes, while Allergan’s Natrelle Style 410 Breast Implants come in twelve shapes. Mentor’s highly cohesive MemoryShape gel implants are available in six shapes.
Because gummy bear implants are relatively new to the U.S. market (they were only approved by the FDA five years ago), the jury is still out on whether or not this type of implant is a better option than traditional round implants.
Cohesive gel implants: the pros and cons
Gummy bear breast implants have many advantages, the most obvious being their natural shape and durability.
The creators of these implants claim that they will outlast traditional options, but more independent studies are needed to definitively prove this claim. That aside, below are the qualities of gummy bear implants that fall squarely in the professional category.
Maintain their shape longer
Because these silicone gel implants are made with a cohesive gel material, they are more likely to hold their shape for longer periods of time.
Unlike traditional silicone used in implants, the highly cohesive silicone in gummy bear implants is a thicker material, though not as thick as gummy candy, making it less likely to change shape over the long term.
Less prone to bending or curling
The material used in gummy bear implants creates a distinct shape, which does not migrate once it is placed under the muscle or breast tissue.
The tighter molecular bonds of the high-strength cohesive gel help ensure that the shell does not collapse. This prevents any folding or rippling effects in the breast.
They are less prone to leakage
Unfortunately, rupture and leakage of breast implants are common, especially as women with saline breast implants age. Cohesive silicone gel implants are less likely to leak because they generally do not develop the fold lines that can strain the implants and cause rupture.
In addition, these types of implants have a cohesive gel shell with a semi-solid interior, so the filler would not be able to travel very far. In general, implant ruptures have been found to be less common with silicone gel than with saline.
Offer a more natural look
Cohesive gel implants are a popular choice among women who desire more natural-looking breast implants. This natural look is largely due to their round base and teardrop shape. This can make them more attractive than the rounded styles that have long been preferred by American breast augmentation patients.
May reduce the risk of capsular contracture
It is normal for internal scar tissue to form around breast implants – after all, they are foreign objects to the body. However, problems arise when this soft scar tissue hardens.
Known as capsular contracture, this hardened, tight capsule around the implant is the most common problem in both cosmetic breast augmentation and breast reconstruction. Due to the unique composition of gummy bear implants, capsular contracture is less likely.
Cohesive gel implants: the cons
Few procedures are without their drawbacks. When it comes to the cohesive gel implant, these range from higher cost (compared to traditional implants) to serious and possibly even life-threatening health risks.
They are more expensive
One of the major disadvantages of this type of implant is its cost. Gummy bear implants cost 30% to 50% more, depending on where you live and the techniques used.
Plastic surgeons estimate that the price of this type of breast augmentation surgery is double the cost of certain saline implants, and they are almost always more expensive than their traditional silicone counterparts.
They could move out of place
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) notes that shaped implants are more likely to rotate and shift after surgery. Because these implants are created to be placed in a specific way, displacement results in an unusual breast appearance and asymmetry. Displacement requires an additional surgical procedure to correct the implant.
May be associated with serious health complications
These highly cohesive gel implants are textured to help them maintain proper position. Although there is little conclusive evidence in this field, textured implants have been linked to breast implant-related anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare disorder that arises from the capsules surrounding the implants.
They are relatively new.
Just because they’re new doesn’t mean they’re better. Round silicone implants have long been the standard in breast enhancement plastic surgery, so there are fewer studies-especially long-term studies that measure results over time-that attest to this new breed of implants.
Cause more prominent scars
Because these implants require a slightly longer incision, they may cause more scarring.
Which type is right for you?
Of course, as with any cosmetic procedure, you should have a thorough conversation with your plastic surgeon before deciding which type of breast implants are appropriate for your unique needs.
If you are determined to form or have teardrop shaped implants, then gummy bear breast implants may be a better option.
However, it is important to note that there are other options available when it comes to shaped breast implants, such as structured saline breast implants. This option also offers a natural look and feel, but carries a higher risk of rupture, folding and leakage.
“Ask a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Guevara to help you determine if cohesive gel silicone implants are the best option for your breast shape and size.
