Gummy bear breast implants, named for their gel-like consistency, are often marketed as a safer and more natural-looking alternative to traditional silicone or saline implants. These highly cohesive silicone gel implants are praised for their durability and ability to maintain shape over time, appealing to individuals seeking natural-looking breast augmentation.
However, the truth is that no breast implant is truly safe, including gummy bear implants. Despite claims of safety and longevity, these implants come with risks and complications that cannot be ignored. Dr. Shaher Khan at Executive Plastic Surgery, a double board-certified plastic surgeon and a leading advocate for breast implant illness (BII) awareness, emphasizes that the health risks associated with breast implants often far outweigh any perceived benefits. In this article, we explore the possible risks and complications of gummy bear implants.
Risk of implant rupture
Although gummy bear implants are known for their durability, they are not immune to rupture. When the outer shell of the implant breaks, the cohesive silicone gel may leak into surrounding tissues. While it may not migrate as readily as traditional silicone, the leaked material can still cause inflammation, scarring, and discomfort. Worse, ruptures often occur silently, meaning you may not notice the damage until complications arise. Imaging tests, such as MRIs, are necessary to confirm a rupture, leading to additional medical expenses and stress.
Increased risk of breast implant illness (BII)
Breast implant illness is a condition characterized by a wide range of systemic symptoms, including chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and autoimmune disorders. Gummy bear implants, like all breast implants, have been linked to BII. Although the exact cause of BII remains unclear, many patients report symptom relief after having their implants removed. Dr. Khan offers his unique “Khan Procedure” to safely remove implants and all the surrounding scar tissue as one unit to restore your quality of life.
Development of capsular contracture
Capsular contracture is a common complication of breast implants, including gummy bear implants. It occurs when the body forms excessive scar tissue around the implant, causing the breast tissue to harden, distort, and become painful. Capsular contracture not only affects the aesthetic results of the surgery but also requires additional corrective procedures. Even the most advanced implants, like gummy bear implants, cannot eliminate the risk of this condition.
Susceptibility to ALCL and other cancers
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a rare type of cancer linked to textured breast implants. ALCL occurs in the scar tissue and fluid surrounding the implant and can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated promptly. While smooth implants may reduce the risk, no implant is entirely free from cancer-related concerns. Additionally, there is growing evidence of breast implant-associated systemic symptoms that raise long-term health risks. Dr. Khan advises avoiding implants altogether to minimize such threats.
Risk of infection
Breast implants, regardless of type, can increase the risk of developing an infection. This risk may arise during the initial surgery, in the weeks following implantation, or even years later. Infections around the implant can cause swelling, redness, and intense pain, often requiring surgical removal. Moreover, chronic low-grade infections are harder to detect and can contribute to systemic health issues over time. Dr. Khan advises against the use of breast implants, including gummy bear implants, to eliminate this risk.
Complications with long-term maintenance
One of the biggest misconceptions about gummy bear implants is their perceived longevity. While marketed as lasting longer than traditional breast implants, they still require eventual replacement or removal. Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and complications such as rupture, shifting, or hardening often necessitate additional surgeries. These repeat procedures add to financial costs and increase your risk of surgical complications and emotional stress.
Emotional and psychological toll
Many individuals experience regret, anxiety, and emotional distress after undergoing breast implant surgery. Unrealistic expectations, complications, and ongoing health concerns can take a significant toll on your mental health. Dr. Khan ensures that his patients fully understand the risks of implants and provides safer alternatives to help them achieve their aesthetic goals without compromising their mental or physical health.
Consult the King of Explants to explore your options
Dr. Shaher Khan, often known as “the King of Explants,” has dedicated his career to educating patients about the risks of breast implants and offering safer alternatives. At Executive Plastic Surgery, Dr. Khan’s innovative approach focuses on implant removal and reconstruction using natural tissues from your own body. His signature technique, “The Khan Procedure,” is the gold standard for restoring health and confidence without implants.
If you’re considering gummy bear breast implants, it’s crucial to understand the full scope of potential complications. No implant is without risk, and the “safety” marketed by manufacturers often masks hidden dangers. By seeking expert guidance from specialists like Dr. Khan, you can make informed decisions that align with your goals. For more information contact us today.
