Breast Reconstruction: Q&A
Ask a QuestionMastectomy and Reconstruction w/ Memory Gel Implants
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.
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8 Doctor Answers |
Asked by
Sacramento6413
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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...
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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...
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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.
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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
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
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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...
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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.
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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...
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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...
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Comments (1)
These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.
I had a double mastectomy in July and I am close to getting my ex-panders taken out and my implants put in. I have no idea what kind to get to make sure the are the right size to be proportioned to my body size. I am 5' 7 and 187 lbs. My doctor only has 800 cc in the Mentor Memory Gel and I am just wondering if that will be ok for my frame size or should I go with saline? I wear a size 14 in clothes. I am also concerned with the thing of having to have a MRI to check for leaks in 3 years. Will insurance cover that? Will someone please give me some advice.