In the world of breast augmentation and reconstructive surgery, cohesive gel implants have emerged as a popular option. These implants offer several unique features that set them apart from other types of breast implants. If you’re considering breast enhancement or are simply curious about the latest in implant technology, understanding cohesive gel implants is essential. In this article, we’ll explore what cohesive gel implants are, how they work, their benefits, potential risks, and more.
What Are Cohesive Gel Implants
Cohesive gel implants, often referred to as “gummy bear implants” due to their resemblance to the gummy bear candies in terms of consistency, are a type of silicone – based breast implant. Instead of the traditional silicone gel that is more fluid – like, cohesive gel implants contain a highly cohesive silicone gel. This gel is formulated to hold its shape well, even when the implant is cut or ruptured.
The Composition of Cohesive Gel
The silicone gel used in cohesive gel implants is made up of long – chain silicone polymers. These polymers are cross – linked, which gives the gel its cohesive properties. The cross – linking process is carefully controlled during manufacturing to achieve the desired level of firmness and shape retention. The outer shell of the implant is also made of silicone, which is a biocompatible material that is well – tolerated by the body in most cases.
Different Types of Cohesive Gel Implants
There are different generations and levels of cohesiveness in these implants. The first – generation cohesive gel implants were a step up from the traditional silicone gel implants in terms of shape stability. However, as technology has advanced, we now have highly cohesive gel implants. These highly cohesive implants are even more resistant to deformation and maintain their shape extremely well. They come in various shapes, including round and anatomical (teardrop – shaped), to suit different aesthetic goals and body types.
How Do Cohesive Gel Implants Work
When a cohesive gel implant is placed in the breast, it works to enhance the size and shape of the breast. The implant is inserted through an incision in the breast area, usually under the breast fold, around the areola, or in the armpit. Once inside the body, the implant takes on the shape it was designed to have.
Shape Maintenance
The highly cohesive nature of the gel allows the implant to maintain its shape over time. For anatomical (teardrop – shaped) implants, this is particularly important as they are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. The gel doesn’t shift or slosh around like a more fluid – like silicone gel would. This means that the breast will maintain a consistent shape, whether the woman is standing, lying down, or moving.
Volume and Projection
Cohesive gel implants are available in different sizes, which allows for customization based on the patient’s desired breast volume and projection. The implant adds volume to the breast, creating a fuller and more shapely appearance. The amount of projection can also be adjusted depending on the implant’s design and size, giving patients the ability to achieve a more natural – looking or a more enhanced look, depending on their preferences.
Benefits of Cohesive Gel Implants
Natural – Looking and Feeling Results
One of the major advantages of cohesive gel implants is that they can provide very natural – looking and feeling results. The shape – retaining properties of the gel, especially in anatomical implants, mimic the natural shape of the breast more closely than some other implant types. The gel also feels more like natural breast tissue, which can be important for patients who want their augmented breasts to feel as authentic as possible.
Reduced Risk of Rupture – Related Complications
Compared to traditional silicone gel implants, cohesive gel implants have a lower risk of significant complications in the event of a rupture. Because the gel is highly cohesive, it doesn’t leak out in a large, uncontrolled manner when the implant shell ruptures. Instead, the gel tends to stay within the shell or form small, contained lumps in the breast tissue. This reduces the risk of silicone migrating to other parts of the body and causing inflammation or other problems.
Durability
Cohesive gel implants are generally considered to be more durable than some other types of implants. The cross – linked silicone gel and the well – constructed outer shell contribute to their long – lasting nature. They are less likely to develop ripples or wrinkles over time, which can be a problem with some other implant materials. This durability means that patients may not need to worry about replacing their implants as frequently, although implant replacement may still be necessary at some point for various reasons.
Customization Options
These implants come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and degrees of projection. This allows for a high level of customization to meet the specific needs and aesthetic goals of each patient. Whether a patient wants a subtle increase in breast size or a more dramatic enhancement, there is likely a cohesive gel implant option that can achieve the desired result.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Capsular Contracture
Like all breast implants, cohesive gel implants carry a risk of capsular contracture. Capsular contracture occurs when the body forms a scar capsule around the implant, which can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and in some cases, be painful. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but it can be influenced by factors such as infection, bleeding during surgery, and the body’s natural healing response to the implant.
Rupture
Although cohesive gel implants are designed to be more resistant to rupture, they are not immune to it. Over time, factors such as wear and tear, trauma to the breast, or manufacturing defects can potentially lead to an implant rupture. While the risk of major complications from a rupture is lower compared to traditional silicone gel implants, a ruptured implant may still need to be removed or replaced.
Allergic Reactions
In rare cases, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the silicone in the implant. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include skin rashes, itching, and swelling. However, true silicone allergies are very uncommon, and most reactions that are thought to be silicone – related are actually due to other factors such as the body’s normal response to a foreign object.
Long – Term Monitoring
Patients who receive cohesive gel implants need to be monitored long – term. This usually involves regular follow – up appointments with a surgeon and periodic imaging tests, such as breast MRI, to check the integrity of the implant and look for any signs of complications. Long – term monitoring is important to ensure the continued health and well – being of the patient.
The Surgical Process
Pre – Operative Consultation
Before undergoing surgery to receive cohesive gel implants, patients will have a pre – operative consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss the patient’s goals, medical history, and any potential risks or concerns. The surgeon will also perform a physical examination of the breasts to determine the best implant size, shape, and placement for the patient.
Anesthesia and Incision
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, although some patients may be able to have it done under local anesthesia with sedation. The surgeon will make an incision in one of the standard locations, such as under the breast fold, around the areola, or in the armpit. The choice of incision depends on several factors, including the patient’s anatomy, the type of implant, and the surgeon’s preference.
Implant Placement
Once the incision is made, the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant. The implant can be placed either above the pectoralis major muscle (subglandular placement) or below the muscle (submuscular placement). The choice of placement also depends on various factors, such as the patient’s natural breast tissue amount and the desired aesthetic outcome. The cohesive gel implant is then carefully inserted into the pocket and positioned correctly.
Closure and Recovery
After the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures or surgical staples. The patient will then be moved to a recovery area, where they will be monitored for a few hours. In the days and weeks following surgery, the patient will need to follow specific instructions for recovery, which may include wearing a special bra, avoiding strenuous activity, and taking medications as prescribed.
Conclusion
Cohesive gel implants offer a unique option for women considering breast augmentation or reconstruction. Their ability to provide natural – looking results, reduced risk of rupture – related complications, durability, and customization options make them an attractive choice. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks involved, and patients need to be well – informed and closely monitored. If you’re considering cohesive gel implants, it’s crucial to have a detailed discussion with a board – certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are the right option for you.
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