You’re daydreaming about rocking your new bikini on the beach next summer, but there are a few more choices to make before you’re swimsuit-ready. A breast augmentation can give you a curvy, feminine body that will fill out your bikini perfectly.
One of the most important choices (after the decision to undergo a breast augmentation) is deciding on a type of implant. Gummy bear, silicone, and saline are three different kinds of implants that all have different benefits. Which one of these options can help you meet your appearance goals? Read on to learn more about gummy bear implants vs. silicone vs. saline.
Gummy Bear Breast Implants
Form-stable implants, often referred to as “gummy bear” breast implants, offer a unique advantage. These implants are made of highly cohesive silicone gel, giving them a firmer consistency than traditional silicone implants. The thicker silicone gel used in gummy bear implants provides a natural-looking result. Since the silicone gel used in gummy bear implants is highly cohesive, it makes them less prone to leakage or shifting.
Gummy bear breast implants are available in both round and shaped varieties. Shaped implants offer more projection at the bottom and taper towards the top, creating a gently sloping breast appearance. Under the expertise of a skilled plastic surgeon, both round and shaped gummy bear implants can yield excellent aesthetic outcomes.
Gummy bear implants are often preferred by individuals who desire a breast augmentation with a more stable shape and less risk of rippling, as the gel helps to prevent sagging over time. These implants are approved by the FDA for women aged 22 and older.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are often praised for their ability to provide a natural look and feel. They consist of a silicone outer shell filled with silicone gel, which has a thick and sticky texture resembling natural breast tissue. These implants typically have a round shape with a fuller upper portion, contributing to a more voluptuous appearance. However, silicone breast implants are available in different shapes and sizes, including teardrop (also known as anatomical) shapes. Round implants are symmetrical and can enhance the fullness and projection of the breasts, while teardrop implants have a tapered shape that mimics the natural contour of the breast, with more volume at the bottom.
The FDA approves silicone breast implants for augmentation in women aged 22 and older, as well as for breast reconstruction in women of any age. Regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are necessary if you opt for silicone implants. These check-ups ensure the implants are functioning properly, and additional screenings such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to assess the implant’s condition.
Saline Breast Implants
This type of breast implant is composed of a silicone outer shell that’s filled with saline, which is sterile salt water. Some saline breast implants are pre-filled, and others are inserted empty and filled during a breast augmentation. This type of breast implant gives a uniform shape, firmness, and feel. Saline breast implants are usually round.
One of the advantages of saline breast implants is their safety profile. Saline is a biocompatible material that can be easily absorbed by the body in case of implant rupture or leakage. Unlike silicone gel, saline poses no risk of silicone leakage into the surrounding tissues if a rupture occurs.
Saline breast implants are FDA-approved for augmentation in women 18 and older and for reconstruction in women of any age.
Gummy Bear Implants vs. Silicone vs. Saline: Which is Right For You?
All three types of breast implants have their own set of advantages. Choosing between gummy bear implants, silicone implants, or saline implants for your breast augmentation can be challenging. However, you don’t have to make the decision alone! During your consultation with Dr. Madry, your appearance goals will be discussed, and together, you can determine which implant option will best help you achieve your desired results. Don’t hesitate to schedule your free consultation today to embark on your journey toward more confidence and self-esteem.