‘Gummy bear’ breast implants – FAQs
On this page you will find out:
- What are gummy bear breast implants?
- Why are they called gummy bear implants?
- What are their advantages?
- What are their disadvantages?
- How much do gummy bear implants cost?
- How much do they weigh?
- Do they offer long-term safety?
- Do they droop over time?
- What kind of scars do you get with gummy bear implants?
- Can I have these implants in the UK?
- How can I find out more?
- Related content
What are gummy bear breast implants?
They’re a type of silicone gel implant that’s made with highly cohesive silicone gel containing very tight molecular bonds, meaning it holds its shape.
Why are they called gummy bear implants?
It has nothing to do with the implants being shaped like gummy bears! The term was coined by California plastic surgeon Dr Grant Stevens, who named them thus because of the gel’s ability to retain its shape rather than leak out if you were to cut into the implant or it ruptured – much like the firm, gel-like texture of the popular sweets.
What are their advantages?
| Shape and form | The highly cohesive gel filling hold a natural teardrop shape, meaning they potentially last longer than other implant types. |
| Natural feel | The implant is very soft to the touch, so is said to feel more like natural breast tissue. |
| Less chance of rippling | Because the implant filling holds its shape, it’s far less likely to move around inside the breast – causing a rippling or folding effect – than other types of implant. |
| Scar tissue can be less visible | Many patients who have had this type of implant have reported softer and less visible scar tissue, possibly due to the firmness of the gel filling making the breast tissue less likely to contract around it. |
What are their disadvantages?
| Lack of long-term information | Since the implants are relatively new to the market, there isn’t a lot of long-term data available to measure their success. |
| Require larger incisions | This is because gummy bear implants are firmer than other types of implant and need a larger space to be inserted. |
| More expensive | This type of implant comes at a higher price than saline or other silicone gel implants, though they potentially last longer. |
| Not widely available yet | Not all clinics and surgeons will offer gummy bear implants, so it’s a good idea to talk to your surgeon first if you’re looking to get them. |
How much do gummy bear implants cost?
On average, you can expect to pay from around £3,500 to £5,800 for these implants in the UK, but always check with your surgeon or clinic before proceeding.
How much do they weigh?
Gummy bear implants tend to weigh the same as regular silicone gel implants, so around 0.69lbs for a typical 300cc implant.
Do they offer long-term safety?
The FDA approved gummy bear implants in 2013, and because the gel filling is not runny, there is far less chance of leakage in the event of a rupture than with other types of implant and they are considered very safe. However, since they are relatively new there is not much long-term data available yet, so it may be advisable to have MRI scans periodically to monitor the implants.
Do they droop over time?
These implants seem to be less susceptible to the effects of gravity than other implants; perhaps because the breast tissue will conform to their shape, rather than the other way around. Most patients report a really natural shape and feel once the implants settle.
What kind of scars do you get with gummy bear implants?
Because of their firmness, these implants have to be inserted underneath the breast, and with a larger incision than other implants; however, the scar tissue produced tends to be softer and less visible over time.
Can I have these implants in the UK?
Yes, gummy bear implants are available in the UK but are not necessarily offered by all clinics or surgeons, so it’s best to check first.
How can I find out more?
It’s a good idea to check out online patient forums if you want to find out more about gummy bear implants, as there are often reliable accounts and experiences from people who have had them, and comparisons with other types of implant.
You can also talk to Stephen McCulley and his team, who’ll be happy to answer your questions.