Silicone Gel Implants vs. Gummy Bear Implants: A Comprehensive Guide by Dr. Amy Bandy

Choosing the right type of breast implant can be a pivotal decision in your breast augmentation journey. With Dr. Amy Bandy, D.O, F.A.C.S., a renowned plastic surgeon based in Newport Beach, California, you’re in expert hands. Today we delve into the nuances between Silicone Gel Implants and Gummy Bear Implants, helping you make an informed choice.

Understanding Breast Implants: Silicone Gel and Gummy Bear

Breast implants have evolved significantly, offering diverse options for augmentation. Silicone Gel Implants and Gummy Bear Implants are two popular choices, each with unique features and benefits.

History of Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants have a storied past, tracing back to the early 1960s. Their inception was a groundbreaking moment in cosmetic surgery, revolutionizing the approach to breast augmentation.

Early Developments

• 1962 Introduction: The first silicone breast implant was developed by two plastic surgeons, Dr. Frank Gerow and Dr. Thomas Cronin. It was first used in a clinical setting in 1962, marking a pivotal moment in aesthetic surgery.
• Material Evolution: Initially, these implants had a thicker shell and contained a gel-like silicone substance. Over time, the silicone used became more cohesive, leading to improvements in safety and feel.

Advancements and Controversies

• 1980s and 1990s: The popularity of silicone implants surged in the 1980s. However, in the 1990s, they faced controversy due to concerns about safety and potential links to autoimmune diseases. This led to heightened regulations and temporary restrictions in their use.
• FDA Review: After extensive research and review, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) re-approved certain silicone implants for breast reconstruction and augmentation in 2006, affirming their safety when used as intended.

Modern Improvements

• Current Generation: Today’s silicone implants are highly advanced, featuring better shell integrity and more cohesive silicone gel. This has significantly reduced complications like rupture and silicone leakage.

History of Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Gummy Bear breast implants, also known as form-stable implants, are a more recent innovation in the field of cosmetic surgery. They represent a significant leap forward in implant technology.

Introduction and Development

• Early 2000s Emergence: Gummy Bear implants emerged in the early 2000s. They are named for their resemblance to the gummy bear candy – firm yet pliable, retaining their shape even when cut.
• Material Composition: These implants are made of a highly cohesive silicone gel, which is thicker than traditional silicone implants. This cohesiveness allows them to maintain their shape better and reduces the risk of leakage.

FDA Approval and Adoption

• Clinical Trials: Extensive clinical trials were conducted to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Gummy Bear implants.
• 2012 FDA Approval: The U.S. FDA approved these implants in 2012 for breast augmentation, marking their official entry into the American cosmetic surgery market.

Current Status

• Widespread Use: Since their introduction, Gummy Bear implants have gained widespread popularity for their natural feel and shape retention properties.
• Continuous Innovation: Manufacturers continue to innovate, improving the texture, shape, and durability of these implants to meet diverse patient needs.

Both Silicone and Gummy Bear breast implants have evolved significantly since their inception, shaped by technological advancements, regulatory scrutiny, and a better understanding of patient needs.

Silicone Gel Implants: Features and Benefits

• Natural Feel: Silicone gel implants are known for their soft, natural feel, closely mimicking natural breast tissue.
• Durability: They are less likely to ripple or wrinkle compared to saline implants.
• Variety: Available in various sizes and shapes to suit individual preferences.

Gummy Bear Implants: Features and Benefits

• Form-Stable: These implants maintain their shape even when cut, thanks to the highly cohesive silicone gel.
• Reduced Leakage Risk: The thick consistency minimizes the risk of leakage.
• Anatomical Shape: They offer a more natural-looking shape, resembling the slope of natural breasts.

Choosing the Right Implant: Considerations

Selecting the right implant involves considering various factors:

• Body Type: Your body shape and size influence the implant choice.
• Desired Outcome: Consider the look and feel you aim to achieve.
• Lifestyle: Active lifestyles may influence the type of implant suitable for you.

Silicone vs. Gummy Bear: Making an Informed Decision

The decision between Silicone Gel and Gummy Bear Implants should be made after careful consideration. Consult with Dr. Bandy to understand which option aligns best with your goals and body type. Contact Dr. Amy Bandy’s office in Newport Beach, California, for a personalized consultation. Let us help you achieve your desired look with the utmost care and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions