Having trouble with a Gummy bear anatomical versus smooth round implant decision

Question

I know in the long run, gummy bear implants would be better for me as they retain their shape due to the highly cohesive gel. And I've read that the anatomical gummy bear have a natural feel even though they're firmer due to the textured shell being "velcroed" to the tissue. However I'm scared of getting a textured implant due to the risk and recall, and am wondering if a smooth round implant won't feel as natural as regular silicone? Should I just go for smooth round silicone instead?

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

The round smooth implants are better and here is why. Dr. Hidalgo proved in a scientific paper in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, March 2017, that a panel of plastic surgeons and lay people could not tell the difference between your choices. The disadvantage of the increased risk of a rare lymphoma from a textured anatomic implant, increased cost, and other issues precluded its use over a round smooth implant in elective cosmetic breast augmentation. You should get a very good result. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Studies have shown that patients with textured implants face a higher risk of a rare form of cancer called breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA ALCL). Allergan has ordered the recall of all of its BIOCELL textured breast implants but the risk appears to be very small. You and your board certified PS need to discuss the issues remaining as the textured products clearly linked with BIA-CLCL are off the market.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Each surgeon will have their own recommendations but I find it best to currently avoid all textured devices.  Hope this helps.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You should not get textured implants because of the association with a rare type of lymphoma. Last I heard they were not being sold anymore.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Trayceecook,
I recommend you have this discussion in person with a plastic surgeon because everyone's breasts are different but generally speaking the shaped gummy bear implants will allow more upper pole breast fullness but can diminish the amount of cleavage. I typically don't recommend these unless you have very small breasts to begin with or have had a mastectomy. I see no advantage to a round form stable implant.
Generally if you want a round implant its best to not go with a form stable implant to allow more natural look and feel. Form stable implants are much more firmer. I carry all sizes and types of implants in my office to allow my patients to get a better sense for their implant choice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Having trouble with a Gummy bear anatomical versus smooth round implant decision

Answers (5)