You have no doubt heard something about “Gummy Bear” breast implants, also known as cohesive gel implants, and the many supposed advantages over traditional silicone gel implants. It is our view that the jury is still out when we are talking about using these newer implants for cosmetic breast augmentation as opposed to breast reconstruction.
The following ad suggests that round implants result in a round-appearing breast. We politely disagree. Round implants are subjected to the forces of gravity, and they attain a much more natural shape after they are implanted. There is no question that the gummy bear implants retain their tear-drop shape, and that can be both an advantage and disadvantage.
The shape of traditional gel implants is affected by gravity and forces of the breast, and there is a greater margin for error. This doesn’t exist with gummy bear implants. The shape doesn’t change, and there is zero margin for error. The patient and surgeon need to be 100% that the perfect shape is selected preoperatively.
Gummy bear implants tend to feel firmer that silicone gel implants, particularly in patients with less natural breast tissue. These newer implants also cost about 50% more than traditional gel implants. Also, because these implants are not deformable, they require a longer incision for insertion.
Finally, there is the issue of implant rotation. If a round implant rotates within the breast pocket, the shape of the breast will not be affected. Because the gummy bear implant projects more on the bottom than on the top, implant rotation will result in distortion of the breast and a second operation may be needed. A consultation at Lawrenceville Plastic Surgery is your best option to have all your breast augmentation questions answered.