Breast augmentation is one of the most popular procedures we perform at Rios Center for Plastic Surgery in Edinburg, TX. If you’ve considered breast implants, you might wonder what type of implant is right for you — silicone implants or gummy bear breast implants? Both are popular choices, so this blog explores the pros and cons of each so that you can be better informed.
What Are Silicone and Gummy Bear Breast Implants?
Traditional silicone breast implants are filled with silicone gel, a thick fluid designed to mimic the feel of human fat. Silicone implants have been widely used in breast augmentations for decades due to the naturalness of their appearance and feel beneath the skin.
Gummy bear breast implants, on the other hand, are a newer variation of silicone implants. These implants are filled with a highly cohesive and form-stable gel that retains its shape even if the implant shell breaks, much like sticky gummy bear candy.
Traditional Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants have been the go-to choice for breast augmentation for quite some time. They’ve been praised for how natural they look and feel, so they’re often the implant of choice for surgeons and patients alike. Silicone implant procedures are relatively straightforward and have high rates of patient satisfaction.
Of course, silicone implants aren’t without their potential cons. When a silicone implant ruptures, you may not be able to tell immediately. This situation is called a “silent rupture.”
With a silent rupture, the silicone gel sometimes remains within the implant’s shell or escapes into the breast implant pocket. When this happens, the breast shape or size changes. Regular MRI checks can ensure silicone implants are intact.
Gummy Bear Breast Implants
Gummy bear breast implants have been increasing in popularity over the last few years. Their innovative structure provides several advantages:
- The firmness of the gel reduces the risk of “rippling,” a condition where the surface of the breast implant is noticeable through the skin, resulting in a wave-like appearance
- They retain their shape even during rupture due to their form-stable nature and also significantly reduce the risk of silent rupture
- They have an inherent ability to hold a teardrop shape, which mimics the shape of the natural breast better, making them a naturally appealing option
Gummy bear implants require a slightly larger incision during surgery compared to traditional silicone implants. In rare cases, they may rotate slightly, which can lead to an abnormal appearance if left uncorrected.
Breast Implant Surgery and Recovery
Regardless of whether you choose traditional silicone breast implants or gummy bear implants, the breast implant procedure process generally follows a similar structure. The surgery involves creating an incision, making a pocket for the implant within the breast tissue, and placing the implant. All in all, surgery usually takes between one and two hours.
Breast implant recovery also follows a similar pattern, regardless of the type of implant you receive. Most patients are instructed to return to non-strenuous activities within a week, but to avoid strenuous activities for around six weeks.
Of course, your individual breast implant recovery process is influenced by a variety of factors. These include your overall health, the surgical technique used, and the specific characteristics of the implants.
Choosing Silicone or Gummy Bear Implants
The choice between traditional silicone or gummy bear breast implants will ultimately depend on your specific aesthetic goals and personal preference. Both types of implants yield excellent results and have their own unique sets of pros and cons.
We can help you make the choice by providing you with expert advice tailored to the individual needs and goals of your body and aesthetics. When making a recommendation, we’ll consider:
- Your body type
- The current size and shape of your natural breasts
- Your lifestyle
- Your personal preferences
The consultation is an important part of your breast augmentation journey, as this is where we focus on helping you understand the basics of the breast implant procedure.
Since the journey of breast implants is not one-size-fits-all, it’s important for you to communicate your desired outcome clearly. For example, you can bring photos to help communicate your ideas, but remember that what suits one person’s body may not suit another person’s.
Long-Term Considerations of Living with Breast Implants
Many individuals enjoy their breast implants for many, many years. In fact, modern breast implants are designed to last more than a decade.
You may choose to alter your implants at some point. Perhaps you want to increase the size or lessen the volume, or maybe you want to try a different shape.
Keep in mind that breast implants, while they yield significant improvements in your body’s shape and contour, do not prevent the natural changes that occur from various life events like:
- Aging
- Hormonal changes
- Pregnancy
- Weight fluctuations
As you experience these events with your implants, you may decide you want to alter their appearance in some way to better suit your changing phases of life.
Breast Implant Surgery in Edinburg, TX
For the best breast implant procedure experts in South Texas, contact our team at Rios Center for Plastic Surgery. Our board-certified surgeons have years of experience and expertise in providing high satisfaction rates to our patients. Board-certified plastic surgeons require extensive training, rigorous examination, and continuing education in the latest techniques and safety guidelines. This means that when you choose our center, you receive some of the best surgical care possible in the state.
Contact us today to learn more about breast implant surgery and schedule a consultation.
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