Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy describes the consistency of the silicone gel in Natrelle Inspira® Breast implants. A Breast Augmentation is the single most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States. According to the American society of Plastic Surgery, over 300,000 procedures were performed in 2018, alone.
The first-generation silicone gel filled implants were developed in 1962 by Dow Corning Corporation. Over the next 30 years the 2nd and 3rd generation implants were developed to reduce the risk of rupture, silicone migration and capsular contracture.
In 1992, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed the 3rd generation devices to further study safety concerns. New recommendations were made by both the FDA and American Society of Testing Methodology concerning both the gel cohesiveness and shell thickness.
Silicone is a mixture of polymetric molecules of varying length chains. The physical properties of the silicones vary depending on the length and crosslinking of the polymetric chains. The gels viscosity is increased by increasing the length of chains and the amount of crosslinking. The gel consistency varies from a soft liquid to a firm cohesive gel which exhibits shape retention.
In 2006, the FDA released the 4th generation and later, the 5th generation onto the market. The 5th generation, implants have a thicker shell and enhanced cohesive and firm stable gel. Studies show there is no difference in the incidences of autoimmune disease in mastectomy reconstructed patients with silicone implants vs. autologous tissue.
Natrelle gummy gels come in 5 different profiles and 3 different gummy gels. The level of the cohesivity of the gel helps to hold the implant shape. The implant profile, size and style help to determine the final breast shape depending on the soft tissue coverage and skin quality.
Things you should discuss with you surgeon include:
Should my implants be under or on top of the muscle? Shape and fullness of desired breasts? Where the incision will be? Will you be able to breast feed? What are the possible complications of surgery? How soon can I resume normal activity?
You should also discuss with your doctor if you have any autoimmune diseases or take any medications that weakens your immune system. Discuss all your prescribed medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins or herbal substances that may affect risk of blood clots or wound healing.
Based on your body shape and your goals, your surgeon will help you choose the right size and profile that is right for you.
References
Allergan, Natrelle Breast Augmentation of breast enhancement https://www.natrelle.com
Cronin RD, Braur RO Augmentation Mammoplasty Surgery Clinic. North Am 1971; 51(2) 441 452
Jewell, M. Managing patient expectations in breast augmentation presented at the American Society for Aesthetic Surgery Meeting. New Orleans, Louisiana. April 29, 2005
2018 National Plastic Surgery Statistics ASPS