Gummy bear implants, what's the difference?

Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. and worldwide. In 1992 silicone implants were placed on hold in this country and the majority of physicians used saline implants for breast augmentation. However, the remainder of the world still used silicone implants.

After extensive research the FDA approved the unrestricted use of silicone implants in 2006. Today silicone implants are made with fourth generation cohesive gel. The gel is similar to the consistency of a gummy bear candy. The gel is very cohesive and when cut in half the new implants maintain their shape and the gel does not leak out. Older silicone implants had gel that would leak into the tissues if the implant was broken. The cohesive gel implants have been available in Europe for many years and I have been using them here in Vero Beach with great success.

Many patients with saline implants will exhibit wrinkles in the upper part of the breast or have a shape that is too round for a natural breast shape.  These patients are opting for implant replacement with silicone implants. Silicone implants come in a round shape like saline implants and are also available in teardrop shaped sizes.

Saline implants can be placed through a small incision because the implants are placed into the breast empty. The saline is added after the implants are placed into the body. If a saline implant leaks the saline is absorbed into the body and the breast loses it fullness. When an implant leaks it requires replacement, which is a simple procedure as long as it is done relatively soon after deflation.

An MRI can be used to access the status of silicone implants if a leak is suspected.  A special device developed in central Florida called the "Keller funnel" (www.kellerfunnel.com) helps place silicone implants into the breast and minimize potential infection.

The surgery usually last about an hour and most patients return to work within a week. Surgery should be done in a certified operating room for your safety. Anesthesia is required and usually a twilight technique is used. At the Rosato Plastic Surgery Center anesthesia is directed by a board certified anesthesiologists. The RPSC is a licensed ambulatory surgery center inspected by the state of Florida and the Agency for Health Care Administration.

Call the Rosato Plastic Surgery Center for more information, 772-562-5859, or visit our web site, www.rosatoplasticsurgery.com, or like us on facebook.   Special pricing is available to patients that reference this story.