“Gummy Bear” Implants – A Passing Fad or New Frontier?

One of the most well-known cosmetic procedures across the nation is breast augmentation. However, in the past silicone and saline devices were the only options for women undergoing the procedure. That is until now.

What are Gummy Bear Implants?

The beauty industry is a booming business because so many people are looking to retain their fountain of youth. In addition to skin care and makeup, plastic surgery and other enhancements are best-known for those looking to improve their appearance and self-confidence. Breast augmentation is one of the most popular methods of improvement where women won’t think twice about spending their hard-earned money on. While past products such as silicone and saline may have proved problematic for some, the latest breast augmentation device to enter the market is a promising, cohesive gel-like implant. Approved by the FDA, Dr. Grant Stevens nicknamed the product “gummy bear” because when sliced in two, the gel is able to retain its shape and remain stable. This is similar to what you would find when chewing a piece of gummy bear candy in your mouth. While the candy may be chewy and delicious, the latest implants are being praised for their comfort, natural feel and being similar to what an actual breast feels like.

Why Are Gummy Bear Implants Growing in Popularity?

Knowledgeable plastic surgeons such as Dr. Fred Hackney are thrilled to offer the new implants to their patients because they represent the most state-of-the-art advances in breast implants and augmentation. Since the “gummy bear” implants are more stable than other varieties, surgeons appreciate their firmness and ability to hold their shape for longer periods of time. The implant is also shaped in the form of a teardrop which allows it to mimic the natural feel of the breast. Other implants can feel hard and uncomfortable.

Big Business for the Breast Industry

In the United States, breast augmentation is a one of the most popular self-improvement methods for women, with over $1 billion being spent to enhance the bosom. With over 300,000 American women participating in breast augmentation every year, the numbers are expected to continue to climb. A part of the jump in numbers is because the methods used in the market have improved significantly. Over the last 15 years, cosmetic procedures have nearly tripled because silicone implants were introduced to patients. Other patients are undergoing a second form of treatment because their previous implants felt odd and uncomfortable.

Advantages to “Gummy Bear” Implants

Breast augmentation is an elective method of surgery. Whether a patient is unhappy with their size or they are looking for something that can help the breast retain some semblance of its shape, the implants can improve a woman’s self-confidence and body image. When new products are introduced to the marketplace, one needs to take safety issues and problems into account before they move forward. They should also consult with a knowledgeable and trusting board certified plastic surgeon to determine any risks and complications. While the latest implants are nicknamed “gummy bear,” the company that makes the product doesn’t condone this sort of terminology. Sientra doesn’t want to trivialize their product to that of a gummy piece of candy. In addition to being similar to that of a natural breast and greater patient satisfaction, the latest implants have a reduced risk of leaking than other silicone breast implants. Patients also have experience less chances of firm scar tissue from forming. Less implant wrinkling and more firmness are other advantages. In order to get the most out of your implants, you want to find a plastic surgeon who has had extensive training in the use and surgical implantation of the “gummy bear” implants.