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Mastectomy and Reconstruction w/ Memory Gel Implants

asked 1 year ago by Sacramento6413
Latest answer by Steven Turkeltaub, MD
Question viewed 783 times
Tags: 090-109 lbs, 5 ft 0 in to 5 ft 3 in, silicone implant, mastectomy, Memory Gel

I am going to have prophylactic mastectomy with reconstruction. The plastic surgeon that I've consulted told me that he uses gummy bear implants. He uses Mentor silicone gel smooth round high profile. Are those implants considered gummy bear implants and can they leak? I am really unsure as to what to pick and I'm told that I can only get that type of implant through my insurance. Also, I'm 5.0" and 102 lbs. What size would you recommend? I'm currently a small b cup. Thank you.

8 answers to Mastectomy and Reconstruction w/ Memory Gel Implants

+2

Best implant type for immediate breast reconstruction

A lot of confusion about what the terms that describe silicone implants mean. "Memory gel" is a Mentor term that describes their version of cohesive gel; all gels used in implants now are cohesive, meaning that they hold together in a single mass. In other words, they are not a liquid that leaks out if there is a hole in the shell. Mentor CPG and Allergan Style 410 are known as "form-stable" or shaped implants, commonly called "gummy bear." Smooth round high... more
Richard Baxter, MD

Seattle Plastic Surgeon
+2

Mastectomy reconstruction with memory gels

Most silicone implants (from Mentor and Allergan) are Memory gels.  "Gummy Bear Implants" are still waiting on FDA approval.  In terms of your breast reconstructive options, given your height and weight, your plastic surgeon is right.  You seem petite; I don't think your plastic surgeon was just thinking about cost or insurance company when he has recommended implant reconstruction.  You probably do not have enough tissue in your abdomen (belly) to get... more
Sugene Kim, MD

Houston Plastic Surgeon

www.drkimplasticsurgery.com

+2

Mentor Memory Gel Implants versus Gummy Bear Implatns

Nearly all silicone gel implants are cohesive. Mentor calls these "Memory Gel" implants. However, there are varying degrees of thickness or viscosity among these implants. The firmest style is called the CPG (Contour Profile Gel) and represents the "gummy bear" implant you describe which is available only to a limited number of physicians.
Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+2

Gummy bear breast implants

The real gummy bear breast implants are generation 4-5. They are available on limited basis as a part of study group. To my knowledge the study is over and awaiting FDA approval. Cohesive gell is available to all. You need to discuss the reconstruction options with your surgeon and exactly what is being used and why. The pros and cons and risks and alternatives
Samir Shureih, MD

Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
+2

Breast Reconstruction and Gummy Bear Implants

Allergan  and Mentor companies manufacture cohesive gel or memory gel implants.  These implants are the newer generation silicone  gel implants available for use since 11/06.  some women refer to these as gummy bear implants,  The silicone gel is more viscous or cohesive.  The round shape have been approved for use by the FDA.  The tear drop shape are not available for general use yet.  These are good implants and may be especially useful in a thin... more
Stephen Delia, M.D.

Boston Plastic Surgeon
+2

Implant choices

Gummy bear implants are cohesive gel implants that are terdrop shaped and textured. He can only use them if he is part of the study group.  They are not the same as the Memory gel round smooth implants.
Steven Wallach, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Mentor high profile silicone implants are not "gummy bear" implants

The Mentor high profile silicone implants are a cohesive silicone gel implant but they are not the "gummy bear" implants. These latter implants are firmer, form stable implants that have not been FDA approved and are therefore not available for implantation in this country. Only a very limited number of plastic surgeons are involved in a clinical study involving these implants and according to what you state, this physician does not appear to be one of those. Implant size... more
Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon
+1

IMMediate Breast Reconstruction Breast Implant Choices

With all due respect you SHOULD have had all of these questions answered by your surgeon. Your surgery is an important event and you DESERVE all your questions answered before you proceed. "Gummy Bear " implants - are super cohesive gel implants which are form stable. Even when the implant shell breaks, the gel contents stay in place. The problem with these implants is that they are stiffer than ALL other implants in the market and that they are no longer in use pending formal approval by... more
Peter A. Aldea, MD

Memphis Plastic Surgeon

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