Gummy Bear Breast Implants 101

The FDA’s recent approval of cohesive breast implants, or “gummy bear” breast implants, was great news for women looking to improve the appearance of their breasts. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, it’s a perfect opportunity to share information about these exciting new breast implants.

What are Gummy Bear Breast Implants and How are they Different?

Technically called cohesive breast implants, the gummy bears are made of a thick gel-like material making them impervious to leaks. In fact, they are so dense that if you cut them in half, the gel will not leak out and the implant will still retain its essential shape—just like a gummy bear candy.

What are the Advantages of Gummy Bear Breast Implants?

• Unlike saline or silicone implants, gummy bear implants virtually never rupture or leak.

• Gummy bear breast implants are anatomically shaped in a natural breast contour and once inserted, the surrounding breast tissue assumes the shape of the implant giving a more youthful, uplifted appearance.

• Women who receive gummy bear implants report a lower incidence of firm scar formation and capsular contracture compared to saline and silicone implants.

• Gummy bear implants come in a variety of sizes and shapes so women can choose a breast silhouette that looks best on them.

• Gummy bear implants last longer and have a lower incidence of surgical revision than saline and silicone implants.

Are There Any Disadvantages?

Gummy bear breast implants do cost more that other implant options, but given their longer-lasting performance and infrequent complications, many women consider the overall cost to be about the same as other implants. Gummy bear implants are also not considered an ideal choice for women looking for an extremely large cup size or who desire the “round” appearance of some traditional implants. Gummy bear implants are designed and shaped to give a natural-looking profile.

How is Gummy Bear Implant Surgery Performed?

The implant procedure is very similar to that used for saline and silicone implants; many surgeons, however, choose to make the incision in the crease below the breast (known as the inframammary fold) since the firmer texture of the implant can require a minimally larger incision than saline implants. The natural curve of the breast disguises the incision.

Women who have chosen gummy bear implants are overwhelmingly pleased with their decision. If you are considering breast augmentation or reconstruction, ask your surgeon about these exciting new implants.