You may have heard a lot of buzz recently about so-called gummy bear breast implants, so let’s break down this recent breast augmentation option.
What are gummy bear breast implants made of?
First things first: no, they don’t resemble gummy bears in the least. They’re colloquially known as “gummy bear” breast implants due to their thicker, jello-like consistency. Made of cohesive silicone gel, they are form-stable breast implants that are thicker and more structured than the traditional silicone gel implants. Another difference: the gummy bear implant shell is unlikely to fold or wrinkle, and it’s not easily distorted by pressure, meaning they hold their shape better than traditional silicone and saline gel implants. This means that unlike traditional silicone and saline gel implants, where the gel will flow with gravity (i.e., standing upright, it flows to the bottom of the shell), the upper pole of a gummy bear implant remains full even when you’re standing vertically. This also means that many patients typically experience minimal sagging and side-to-side movement after surgery.
When it comes to gummy bear implant shapes, there’s a reason the teardrop gummy bear implants are so coveted: their more stable composite means these implants retain that natural-looking teardrop shape more easily and without much assistance or support. Their thicker structure also means If the implant tears or ruptures, it will continue to hold its original shape and size. Gummy bear breast implants may also have a lower risk of capsular contracture, a painful complication that occurs when the scar tissue that usually forms around your implant to help keep it in place, instead tightens and squeezes the implant, potentially resulting in chronic pain and a distorted breast shape, making the affected breast rise higher on the chest than the other.
How long do gummy bear breast implants last?
Gummy bear breast implants are incredibly durable and stable (and therefore less likely to rupture and leak vs their traditional silicone or saline counterparts). However, this means it can be harder to detect in the unlikely event they do leak. Dr. Barrett and the FDA recommend an MRI screening 3 years after they are placed and every 2 years thereafter. And while breast implants can last anywhere from 10-20 years, it’s recommended to replace your breast implants every 10 years.
Do you want to learn more about Barrett Plastic Surgery? Keep up to date by subscribing to our blog and following us on social media at Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, Realself, YouTube, Snapchat, Yelp, and Facebook for updates.
Thank you for visiting!