Mentor vs Motiva breast implants: which implant is less likely to trigger an immune response?

With the knowledge that we have at present, I'm more enthusiastic about using Motiva implants which have a micro texture surface. This means that the texture size is much smaller than the standard texture size. That's more likely to behave like a smooth implant, and not creating an ALCL. The initial indications make me believe that Motiva implants are preferential. 

Most US plastic surgeons have no experience with Motiva implants. However, we do know that ALCL has only been associated with textured implants. That's not to say that it could never happen. Australian plastic surgeons seem to love textured implants, but I only use smooth, round implants. Texturing is used to prevent movement within the pocket and can be used with round or shaped implants. Studies show that once an implant is placed, neither plastic surgeons nor patients can tell the difference when looking at photos. Therefore, I use smooth round, knowing that it will become a tear drop in the standing position. Regarding your immune response, the shell of saline and silicone implants are both made of silicone. No studies have shown a cause and effect between any autoimmune problems and breast implants. Implants available in the the US have very good warranties for ruptures and capsular contractures. Good luck!

as there are no studies comparing immune response based on manufacturers this question cannot be answered definitively.  Motiva is not currently a manufacturer selling products in the US (unless on study).  I would choose a type of implant (highly cohesive gel, 5th generation) over a manufacturer per se.  However, you ask and I personally like the gummy bear implant line from Sientra.

Great question - my answer - and I am sure that many will disagree with me - that there is not a big difference between the different implant manufacturers.  That being said, the Motiva implants are new to our market and not many surgeons/patients have had much experience with them.  Now I do realize that each implant manufacturer has paid for studies  - many of which show that that a particular implant is better than the others - but I am not convinced...  What I personally think makes a bigger difference is your surgeon's technique:  no touch technique, Keller funnel, betadine irrigation, triple antibiotic irrigation, incision location, etc.  Re ALCL - this has only been seen with textured implants.  Not smooth implants.Best of luck.

At this point there really isnt enough data on Motiva implants as the clinical studies started a year ago in the U.S.  Certain surgeons have been chosen to participate in the study.I would say there is no data that using silicone implants triggers patients immunologic response.  I would discuss this with your surgeon and I would not choose a surgeon based on the type of implant they are using but choose a surgeon based on expertise and your comfort with them.Hope that helps.

First, large studies have shown both saline and silicone gel implants to be safe and to not increase the risk for autoimmune disorders.  Next, keep in mind that both saline and silicone gel implants have a silicone shell.  And so with all due respect to what the previous PS suggests, if you are truly sensitive to silicone you would still be exposed to silicone with saline implants.  Finally, with the risk of ALCL associated with textured implants, there is really no way for any prudent Plastic Surgeon to suggest you using textured implants until this issue is studied further.My suggestion would be to use either MENTOR or ALLERGAN smooth saline or gel implants but to discuss this with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and figure out what you are most comfortable moving forward with.  I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACS PCEOBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Dear Verona3,Even though silicone breast implants have been shown in large studies not to cause immune system diseases their use in pre-existing immune disease has not been studied.  If you were my patient I would be recommending saline implants.  Good luck!

Your surgeon should be the one working with you to discuss the pros & cons of each implant in their hands.  Implant type should not be a decision left entirely up to you.  I don't believe that Motiva implants have been around long enough to have significant long term data, although in large studies there is no scientific evidence that implants cause any systemic disease.  Return back to your surgeon to further discuss.  All the best

Dear Verona,
Hello and thank you for your excellent question. Both implants offer warranties, but the details of the warranties are different. With regards to ALCL, the Motiva implants have yet to have established data on this subject. It is best to answer your question during a face-to-face evaluation, when you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and you can have a physical examination to evaluate for that procedure. Preoperative visualization with Crisalix can simulate what your body will look like after surgery and can help you make your decision. I recommend that you find a board-certified, or board-eligible plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of similar patients whom have had this procedure. Good luck!

Best,

Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS