When considering breast augmentation, one of the most important decisions is choosing between silicone or gummy bear breast implants. Both types of implants have advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully weighed when deciding which is the best option for your goals and anatomy. This article provides an in-depth comparison between silicone and gummy bear breast implants to help you make an informed decision.
What are silicone breast implants?
Silicone breast implants have been around since the 1960s and are the most commonly used type of implant for breast augmentation today. Here are the key facts about silicone breast implants:
- Outer shell made of silicone elastomer rubber
- Filled with a viscous silicone gel
- Come in different profiles and sizes
- Require a small incision for insertion
- Naturally feel soft to the touch
The silicone gel inside these implants is thick and cohesive so even if the implant shell ruptures, the gel is designed to stay intact. Silicone implants come in a variety of shapes, profiles, and textures to accommodate women’s different bodies and aesthetic goals. The silicone shell is also designed to minimize rippling or wrinkling.
What are gummy bear breast implants?
Gummy bear breast implants are a newer type of silicone implant that gets its nickname from the thick, cohesive gel inside that retains its shape even when cut in half. Here are the key characteristics of gummy bear implants:
- Outer silicone shell
- Filled with a thicker, form-stable silicone gel
- Come in round and teardrop (anatomical) shapes
- Require a larger incision for insertion
- Feel firmer to the touch than traditional silicone implants
The highly cohesive gel in these implants keeps its form whether standing up or lying down. The gel is thicker than traditional silicone implants and retains a teardrop shape that mimics the slope of the natural breast. The firmer gel also helps the implants hold their shape over time.
Silicone vs. Gummy Bear Implants Pros and Cons
To help decide between traditional silicone or form-stable gummy bear implants, here is an overview of the key pros and cons of each:
Silicone Implants
Pros:
- Softer, more natural feel
- Less visible rippling or wrinkling
- Smaller incision for insertion
- Wide array of sizes and profiles
Cons:
- Less stability in shape over time
- Can’t maintain slope of lower breast
- More prone to capsular contracture
- Potential silicone bleeding with rupture
Gummy Bear Implants
Pros:
- Retain a consistent shape over time
- Mimic slope and shape of natural breast
- Thicker gel stays put even if shell ruptures
- Less risk of rippling or wrinkling
Cons:
- Firmer feel than natural breast tissue
- Larger incision required for insertion
- Limited size and profile options
- Can rotate out of position
- More expensive than silicone
As shown above, both options have unique advantages. Silicone implants offer a softer, more natural feel while gummy bear implants provide more stability in shape.
How do silicone and gummy bear implants compare in safety?
Both silicone and gummy bear breast implants are considered safe by the FDA and have similar safety profiles. Here is how they compare:
- Silicone gel is safe for the body in case of rupture
- Gummy bear gel is even thicker and more cohesive if shell ruptures
- Scar capsule contracture risk is lower with gummy bear
- Implant rotation risk is higher with gummy bear
- No increased cancer risk shown with either implant type
While silicone and gummy bear implants have minimal health risks when used properly, patients should get routine MRI screenings to check for silent ruptures. Catching ruptures early allows for prompt surgery to avoid complications. Always follow your surgeon’s advice on massages and supporting the implants to help prevent capsular contracture as well.
How do silicone and gummy bear implants differ in cost?
Gummy bear implants tend to have a higher upfront cost than traditional silicone gel implants. Here is a comparison of the average costs:
| Implant Type | Average Cost Per Implant |
|---|---|
| Silicone | $1,000 – $2,500+ |
| Gummy Bear | $2,500 – $3,500+ |
However, because gummy bear implants are more durable and stable long-term, they may save money in the long run compared to silicone implants that are more prone to wrinkling, leakage, or replacement surgery. Discuss costs with your surgeon to understand total pricing.
Which type of implant suits different patient goals?
The best breast implant type for your goals depends on the look you want and your anatomical needs:
- Silicone implants suit those who prioritize a natural look and feel
- Gummy bear implants best match needs for stability in shape and projection
- Teardrop gummy bear implants optimize cleavage and shape for slender patients
- Round gummy bear implants provide fullness for patients with less breast tissue
Make sure to convey your aesthetic goals to your plastic surgeon so they can help you select the ideal breast implant style, shape, and volume. Your lifestyle, fitness routine, and current breast anatomy should also be factored in.
What are the key differences in surgical process?
While both silicone and gummy bear breast augmentations are outpatient surgeries, there are some differences in the surgical process:
- Gummy bear implants need a larger incision for insertion
- Silicone implants have a shorter recovery time
- Gummy bear implants require more precise pocket dissection
- Risk of rotating is higher with gummy bear implants
- Revision rate is lower with gummy bear implants
The firmer gel and textured surface of gummy bear implants necessitates more precision in surgically forming the implant pocket. Your surgeon will help you understand the nuances of your specific surgery process.
Which type produces better aesthetic results?
Both silicone and gummy bear implants can produce beautiful, natural-looking results in the right patients. Here is a comparison of their aesthetic outcomes:
- Silicone implants offer a soft, natural jiggle
- Gummy bear implants provide lasting shape and definition
- Silicone implants have more risk of visible wrinkling
- Gummy bear implants can produce thicker cleavage and upper fullness
- Silicone implants come in a wider range of shapes and profiles
Choosing the implant type that complements your body frame, breast anatomy, and personal goals will lead to the most aesthetically pleasing results. Work with an experienced surgeon to select your implant characteristics.
Conclusion
When deciding between silicone vs gummy bear breast implants, weigh the pros and cons of each carefully against your cosmetic goals and anatomy. Gummy bear implants provide more stability in shape while silicone offers a softer feel and more size options. Both implant types are considered safe long-term solutions for breast augmentation. Schedule in-depth consultations with board-certified plastic surgeons to determine whether traditional silicone or form-stable gummy bear implants will best help you achieve the look you want.