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NeoGraft vs. Strip Method: Which Hair Transplant Method is Better?

NeoGraft vs. Strip Method: What is the best hair transplant procedure?

Thinning hair and hair loss affect millions of people, regardless of age or sex. Thinning hair and premature balding, which is heavily influenced by genetic and hereditary characteristics, can lead to low self-esteem and self-confidence. However, hair loss does not have to be permanent, and, in many cases, can even be reversed.
Technological advancements in the areas of hair transplant and restoration offer an alternative to the embarrassment of early hair loss. Two of the most common methods for hair transplants are the traditional strip harvesting technique and the newer NeoGraft® technique. But which is the best hair transplant procedure?

The Different METHODS of hair replacement

Strip method: The traditional strip harvesting technique, known as Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT), involves removing the follicular units from the donor area as one group. The strip method allows the follicular units to be extracted intact, in their genetic form. Each follicular unit contains 1 to 4 hairs (the average is 2.2 hairs per follicular unit). The strip method requires expert surgical skill so the patient will achieve the best result while causing the least trauma to the donor site. It also allows healthy hair to harvest faster.
NeoGraft® method: The newer NeoGraft® method automates the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) procedure. The NeoGraft® method takes the hair out from the donor area with a cookie-cutter looking punch knife that has a diameter of approximately 1mm. This tool is inserted around one hair or a group of hairs known as a follicular unit. The tool makes a short, quick, rotational spin on the scalp to extract the hair follicle. This is done blindly, since the surgeon cannot see the root of the hair while inserting the tool into the scalp.

PROVEN Hair transplant procedures VS. NEW AND TRENDY

Strip method of hair transplants:

The strip method has a proven track record of success and provides natural looking permanent results.
NeoGraft® method: The NeoGraft® method is a newer and less proven procedure, often with increased surgical time, lower precision, and a higher cost to the patient.

AFFORDABILITY of the strip method of hair transplants

Strip method hair transplant costs: On average, the strip method cost $4 per graft.
NeoGraft® method hair transplant costs: On average, the cost is $4-6 per graft.
The average patient requires approximately 1,500 grafts.

Hair GRAFT QUALITY

Strip method hair transplant quality: Since the hair strip is taken out in a surgical suite with a well-positioned and visible surgical field and magnification, the strip method creates quality grafts with the best viability. This allows the surgeon to precisely remove the necessary follicles intact, which avoids trauma and the likelihood of cutting across and destroying hair follicles.
NeoGraft® method hair transplant quality: Graft quality is not as good compared to the strip method because the surgeon assumes that the direction of the punch knife and the hair shaft are the same and that the knife will not cut the hair across and damage it. The hair’s roots may change direction slightly as they are buried in the skin so the chance of cutting across the roots while taking them out is increased.

HAIR SELECTION

Strip method hair selection: The strip method makes it possible to choose the best donor hair. By taking out donor hair from the back of the head, which never grows completely bald in most people, the donor hair is resistant to the damaging effects of testosterone. The testosterone hormone is responsible for genetic hair loss. This healthy donor hair doesn’t care about its new location and stays in place since their genetic material makes them more resistant to hair loss.
NeoGraft® method hair selection: Donor hair is often taken from the broader section of the skull, and theoretically, even elsewhere on the body. Variety does not translate into quality since randomly chosen hair is not necessarily more resistant to hair loss.

POST Hair Transplant SURGERY HAIR STYLE

Strip method : While it takes a few days for the incision at the donor site to heal, the surrounding hair is not affected by the strip method. No haircut or change in styling is needed.
NeoGraft® method: In large hair transplant sessions, the entire donor area must be shaved to access the follicles. You may need to sport a new hairstyle for a while.

Visit our post about swimming after hair transplants. 

Hair Transplant Procedure SCARRING

Strip method scarring: The small linear incision resulting from the harvesting is usually covered by your hair. During subsequent procedures, the first scar is completely removed. With the strip method, the patient is left with only one incision, regardless of the number of procedures.
NeoGraft® method scarring: If the first NeoGraft® session requires 2,000 grafts, you’ll have 2,000 tiny round scars. If there are follow-up procedures this number will double, triple, and so on. With each subsequent session, the scarring with the NeoGraft® method increases. Moreover, if genetic hair loss continues or you happen to require several procedures, thousands of fine scars may become visible in the thinning donor area.

NEED HELP DECIDING which hair transplant procedure is right for you?

For more than 30 years, Dr. Tim R. Love has been on the cutting edge of hair transplant procedures for men and hair transplant procedures for women, working with some of the field’s most prominent experts and serving as a member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. Dr. Love provides a caring and compassionate approach to hair restoration, and is committed to delivering flattering, long-lasting, and natural-looking results. Don’t spend another day hiding your hair loss. Call us today at (405) 751-LOVE (5683) or contact us to schedule an initial consultation and find out if hair transplants are right for you.

Who are the Best Candidates for Breast Implants?

Whether you’re looking to enhance your breast size or reshape them, breast implants can help you achieve the look you desire. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to know all the facts of breast implant surgery (commonly referred to as breast augmentation) and understand if it is right for you before making a decision. As with any aesthetic procedure, it’s important for you to make your decision based on your own goals and needs, not those of others. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help you determine whether or not you are a good candidate for breast implants.

Am I a good candidate for breast implants?

In general, most patients who seek breast implants are good candidates if they:

  • Are in good physical and emotional health
  • Are aware of the risks and complications associated with breast implants
  • Have realistic expectations for the results of surgery
  • Have strong motivations for undergoing the surgery

If you are considering breast implants, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she will evaluate your health and discuss your reasons and expectations for surgery to help determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Are there any reasons why I could not get breast implants?

Most individuals in good physical and mental health are good candidates for breast implants, but there are a few factors that may keep a plastic surgeon from recommending breast augmentation. These include:

  • Current pregnancy or lactation
  • Illness or infection
  • Breast cancer or abnormal mammogram
  • Unrealistic expectations regarding the outcomes of the surgery
  • Smoking or vaping

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your plastic surgeon will recommend you wait to have breast augmentation surgery. A surgeon will want to wait and see the new natural size and shape of your breasts post-pregnancy and breastfeeding before deciding on what type of implant will be best for you.

If you have a history of breast cancer or abnormal mammogram results, speak with your doctor first before considering getting a breast augmentation. While neither of these will necessarily preclude you from getting the surgery, they are important factors to consider and your doctor will want as much information as possible.

In addition to the myriad health concerns associated with smoking, it also decreases oxygen supply and constricts blood vessels, both of which can be dangerous in regards to surgery and recovery. If you do smoke, you will be required to abstain for several weeks prior to your breast augmentation to help ensure the surgery can proceed safely.

Lastly, unrealistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery may keep your surgeon from recommending breast implants. While breast implants can dramatically alter your figure, there are limits to even a skilled surgeon’s capabilities, and any idea of “perfection” is likely not possible. Be sure to discuss your expectations with your doctor so they can provide realistic advice on the outcomes that are achievable with your current anatomy.

What are the different reasons someone would get breast implants?

Breast augmentation is a personal decision and the reasons a woman may elect to have it are wide and varied. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • To achieve a more proportionate figure
  • To restore volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy
  • To correct a difference in breast size
  • To improve self-esteem and confidence
  • Clothing fit issues—particularly with swimwear and form-fitting tops
  • Breast reconstruction following a mastectomy

When is the best time for breast augmentation?

The best time for breast implants is going to be unique for every individual, and there are a number of health and lifestyle factors to consider before determining when it’s right for you.

Best Age for Breast Augmentation

In general, the best age for breast augmentation is when a woman is in her 20s or 30s. This is because a woman’s breasts are typically fully developed by this age, and she is likely to have a good amount of natural breast tissue to work with. Additionally, a woman in her 20s or 30s is likely to have more skin elasticity, which can help the implants settle into place more smoothly. 

However, a woman of any age in good health can be a good candidate for breast implants. Breast augmentation remains a popular choice for women in their 40s, 50s and beyond.

*Note: Silicone gel implants are only FDA-approved for use in women over the age of 22. Patients younger than 22 may still be candidates for breast implants if fat transfer or saline implants are used instead.

Before or After Children

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also considerations for planning when to have breast implants. If you are considering pregnancy in the near future, it is best to wait until after the baby is born and you have finished breastfeeding before having augmentation surgery. This is because pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause changes to your breasts that could potentially affect how the implants will look.

However, if you are not planning on having children for several years, you may wish to have breast implants beforehand and enjoy the benefits the implants bring, and most women can safely and successfully breastfeed even with implants. Later, after you are finished having children, you may need to have revision surgery to restore the shape and size of your breasts. 

Breast Reconstruction

Many women elect for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. There are several techniques that can be used to restore your breasts, such as implants, tissue from other parts of your body, or both. Breast reconstruction can be done immediately following the mastectomy or delayed for several months or even years, depending on what is right for your unique situation. 

What are the types of breast implants?

If you are a good candidate for breast implants and decide that augmentation is right for you, your plastic surgeon can help you determine which type of implant is best for your body to achieve your desired results. The primary types of breast implants are saline, silicone, and gummy bear.

Saline Implants

Saline breast implants have a silicone shell that is filled with sterile salt water. They are available in different sizes and shapes, with the most common being the round implant. Teardrop-shaped implants are also available which create a more natural look.

Pros:

  • Less expensive than other types of implants
  • Require a smaller incision for placement
  • Less likely to leak, but if it does the saline is safely absorbed into the body

Cons:

  • Can cause rippling or wrinkling of the skin
  • May not feel as natural as silicone implants
  • If it does rupture, it will need to be replaced immediately as the breast will be deflated
  • Will likely need to be replaced after 10 years

Silicone Implants

Silicone breast implants are made of a silicone shell filled with silicone gel. They are used to increase breast size or fullness or to improve the symmetry of the breasts. They are available in different sizes and shapes.

Pros: 

  • Look and feel more natural than saline implants
  • Less likely to cause rippling under the skin

Cons:

  • Not available to patients under 22
  • More expensive than saline implants
  • If they rupture, you may not know about it, leading to problems with silicone leaking into the breast
  • Will likely need to be replaced after 10 years

Gummy Bear Implants

Gummy bear breast implants are made of a special type of silicone gel that is more cohesive than traditional silicone gel implants. This means that they hold their shape better and are less likely to leak or rupture if there is a problem with the implant. Gummy bear implants also feel more natural than other types of breast implants.

Pros:

  • Less likely to leak or rupture than other types of implants
  • Retain their shape better over time
  • Less likely to cause rippling or wrinkling of the skin
  • Have a more natural feel than other implants
  • Can last up to 20 years

Cons:

  • Can be slightly more expensive than saline or traditional silicone implants

Dr. Tim R. Love of Love Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics was one of the first plastic surgeons in the country to reintroduce gummy bear implants to U.S. patients, and has remained a pioneer in techniques and procedures that produce safe, long-lasting, and natural-looking breast augmentation results.

What are the alternatives to breast implants?

If you are not deemed a good candidate for breast augmentation, or don’t feel the procedure is right for you, there are alternatives to help you achieve the body you want, such as:

Breast lift: A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that increases the perkiness of the breasts and improves their overall shape. It is often done in conjunction with breast implants to achieve optimal results, but can also be done without implants.

Fat grafting: Fat grafting is a process whereby fat is removed from another area of the body via liposuction and injected into the breasts to increase their size. This is often used as an alternative to implants for patients who do not want foreign objects in their body or those who are seeking a more natural look.

Beautiful Breast Implants in Oklahoma City with Dr. Tim R. Love

Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tim R. Love of Love Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics in Oklahoma City has more than 30 years of experience helping women create their most beautiful bodies. He’s been a leader in innovative breast augmentation procedures for decades and specializes in the revolutionary gummy bear gel implants. Committed to delivering exceptional care and flawless results, Dr. Love remains one of the region’s premier plastic surgeons, earning awards and accolades year after year. 

Find out if breast augmentation is right for you. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Love today and find out how he can help you discover your best self.  

ASK DR. LOVE: What makes BODYtite and FACEtite more effective?

BodyTite and FaceTite by InMode are the first and only FDA-approved devices to sculpt the body and face by removing unwanted fat while shrinking and tightening skin simultaneously.  With the use of radio frequency assisted liposuction (RFAL), these minimally-invasive devices create smoother, tighter skin with quick recovery.

As the expert in these procedures in Oklahoma, we have asked Tim R. Love, M.D. to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about BodyTite and FaceTite.

Q: What do BodyTite and FaceTite do?

While liposuction can reduce the amount of fat on your body, it doesn’t always provide the lift that you need to ensure a tighter and slimmer result. Fortunately, BodyTite and FaceTite’s RFAL technology combines the benefit of fat melting and radio frequency assisted liposuction to tighten the skin for long-term effects.

“InMode’s BodyTite and FaceTite RFAL tighten the skin and soft tissue on overlying areas that are traditionally treated with liposuction alone,” Dr. Tim R. Love, MD said. “I can selectively remove fat and contour various areas of the body and face to create as good a result as an invasive surgery, but with no scars or significant downtime. Thus, BodyTite and FaceTite by InMode provide the ‘lift,’ in addition to the traditional benefits of liposuction.”

Q: In what areas can InMode’s RFAL be used?

“All body areas can benefit,” Dr. Tim R. Love, MD said. “These areas include: Face, neck, breast, abdomen, bra line, back, arms, flanks, hips, thighs, inner thighs, knees, and calves.”

Q: So this means I can avoid long incisions and painful recovery periods by choosing InMode’s RFAL BodyTite/FaceTite technology?

In a word – absolutely! This procedure is much less invasive than similar procedures (such as Thermi-tite), so pain and recovery times are shorter with ultimate results seen within three to six months.

“It is correct to think of using InMode’s RFAL BodyTite/FaceTite to aid in providing greater results with less invasive procedures,” Dr. Tim R. Love, MD said. “Bipolar RFAL in the form of InMode’s BodyTite/FaceTite has been shown to ‘shrink’ skin and soft tissue up to 40 percent.”

“The remarkable outcomes allow ‘lift’-like results without the incisions or the downtime of recovery from a traditional face lift, neck lift, breast lift, abdominoplasty, arm lift, or thigh/knee lift procedures.”

Q: Does BodyTite/FaceTite require hospitalization or general anesthesia?

“No, BodyTite and FaceTite can be safely and comfortably performed under local anesthesia and gentle oral sedation,” Dr. Tim R. Love, MD said.

Q: In what ways are BodyTite and FaceTite superior to similar procedures?

“InMode’s patented BodyTite and FaceTite are the only FDA-approved bipolar RFAL systems in the world,” Dr. Tim R. Love, MD said.

“The bipolar nature is the unique piece providing an extremely powerful tool with very accurate temperature control to ensure safe, effective treatments,” Dr. Tim R. Love, MD said. “Competing technology, such as Thermi-tite, is monopolar in nature. It is slow, far less effective and offers less safety in terms of temperature control.”

Q: Where can I get more information?

We would LOVE to assist you on your BodyTite/FaceTite journey and answer any other questions that you may have. For more information, please call 405-751-LOVE (5683).

Keeping Your Hair Healthy After a Hair Transplant

healthy HAIR after a hair transplant Procedure

Hair follicles are the starting point for your hair growth. Follicles are glands at the top of the scalp that hold the only living part of your hair; the hair that you see on your head is not growing, and is actually considered “dead.”

We lose about 100 hairs a day, but new hair is constantly growing, so it is barely noticeable. Hair loss or balding occurs when the normal cycle of hair growth and shedding is disrupted due to stress, hormones, or other factors, or if the hair follicle is damaged or destroyed and replaced by scar tissue.

Hair thinning, hair loss, and baldness can be significant challenges for many people, both men and women. While some try to manage it on their own, many other people will pursue some type of hair restoration, such as medication.

Hair transplant procedures are also growing in popularity as an option for halting or even reversing hair loss. More than 100,000 hair restoration procedures are performed each year in the US alone, and that number continues to grow.

During a hair transplant, small groups of healthy hair follicles—called grafts—are removed from one part of the scalp—a “donor site”—and transplanted to the area of thinning or balding. Though this transplanted hair will fall out within a few weeks of the surgery—remember, the hair itself is dead, but the transplanted follicles are “alive” and healthy—new hair growth will begin in that area soon after.

If you have recently undergone a hair transplant or other type of surgical hair restoration procedure, taking care of your hair is now more important than ever. While hair thinning, hair loss, and baldness are heavily influenced by genetics, there are some steps you can take to help care for what you do have.

Haircare after a hair transplant procedure

Taking care of your hair helps prevent oil buildup, breakage, and split ends, which can weaken the hair. The ideal hair care routine varies with every individual, but some basics can help keep your hair—whatever its personality—healthy.

  • Less is more, especially when it comes to your shampoo. Although it’s designed to clean your hair, too much can strip your hair of the natural oils and minerals that keep it healthy and shiny. Many hair experts even discourage daily shampoo, suggesting you instead opt for an all-natural dry shampoo. You also want to avoid shampoos with excessive chemicals or fragrance. Look for products free of sulfates, parabens, dyes, GMOs, and mineral oils. These ingredients can dry out your hair, and cause buildup that dulls the shine.
  • Be gentle with wet hair, as it’s far more fragile than dry hair. Instead of using a harsh cotton towel to dry your hair, opt for an old t-shirt. Try to comb and detangle your hair before you wash it, and use a wide-toothed comb when you still have conditioner in your hair.
  • Beat the heat, as much as you can. While completely cutting out heat treatments may not be possible, limiting them is best. Invest in a hairdryer that has a cooling option, or a straightener that works without being over 300 degrees. Heat-protective products are also recommended.
  • A softer style works for your hair better than harsh up-dos. Loosen ponytails, braids, and any other hairstyle that puts a little stress on your roots. Additionally, try to limit products that make your hair too stiff or too big and opt instead for a little texture.
  • See your stylist regularly to trim split ends. Cutting off those dead ends every six to eight weeks promotes healthier, faster hair growth.

A healthy diet can help keep your hair healthy after a hair transplant procedure

There are a variety of foods that you can incorporate into a healthy diet that will help give your hair the nutrients it needs to grow full and healthy. Some of these foods include:

  • Fish, such as salmon, tuna, or trout, are rich in protein and Vitamin D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids
  • Walnuts are also rich in fatty acids, biotin, and vitamin E which help protect your hair against damage.
  • Eggs, in addition to protein, have zinc, selenium, sulfur, and iron, which carries oxygen to your hair follicles.
  • Blueberries are abundant in vitamin C, which is critical for circulation to the scalp.
  • Spinach has beta carotene, folate, and vitamin C—all of which benefit scalp oils.

Other factors that can help keep your hair healthy after a hair transplant procedure:

Sometimes, hair damage and loss can be attributed simply to age or other genetic factors; other times, it’s a result of daily habits. If you’re eating right but still having trouble with your locks, you may want to have your vitamin and mineral levels checked and take supplements as recommended by your doctor.

In addition to limiting product use, try to choose silicone-based products to limit the amount of damage done to your hair. Leave-in conditioners are also excellent for protecting hair and don’t forget about following the product directions precisely. Finally, be sure you trust your hairstylist—whether it’s a cut or a styling, they shouldn’t be hurting your scalp by doing their job.

Dr. Tim R. Love is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience in hair restoration procedures. He has worked closely with pioneers in the hair transplant field and continues to remain at the forefront of the latest innovations in transplant technology and techniques.

If you have questions about your hair transplant or think you may be a good candidate to receive this hair transplant procedure, call our office today at (405) 751-LOVE (5683) or contact us to schedule a consultation.

Saline v. Silicone Breast Implants and the Gummy Bear Implant: Choosing Your New Boobs

SALINE VS. SILICONE BREAST IMPLANTS AND THE GUMMY BEAR IMPLANT

When it comes to breast augmentation surgery, your concerns are likely focused around the size of your implants and the final outcome; though, there are several questions you might want to consider, including:

These are all valid questions and concerns — and we can answer each one of them! However, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is also one of the first: do you want silicone or saline breast implants? Your decision will ultimately come down to personal preference and aesthetic goals. But now, there’s a new option to consider. Gummy bear implants are a fresh take on silicone and were officially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012. They have become increasingly popular over the past few years. We’ll get to why later in this article. To help ensure you make an informed decision between silicone, saline and gummy bear, we’ve created a guide that covers all three. 

Choose wisely. There are a few facts about breast implants that are simply universal. It’s important to separate fact and fiction when researching breast augmentation surgery information. Here’s what you need to know: 

  • They aren’t meant for a lifetime. Breast implants, regardless of what type you choose, aren’t meant to last forever. You’ll likely need to either replace or remove them at some point in your life. However, some implants do last longer than others, so be sure to ask your doctor.
  • You aren’t alone. More than 310,000 women and teenagers underwent breast surgery to have their breasts enlarged with silicone or saline implants in 2018. Since 1997, the popularity of breast augmentation surgery has tripled! 
  • Surgery is still surgery, which means you’re at risk for infection. Proper after-care is essential to ensuring your breast implants remain unharmed. In addition to infection, your implants may become uneven, deflate, rupture, wrinkle, or any other number of possible complications. Be sure to discuss these with your doctor.
  • Though complications from breast augmentation surgery have been documented, both saline and silicone breast implants are considered safe by the FDA.
  • Speaking of aftercare, you’ll likely need MRI screening for silent ruptures. Just as a precaution for your health, MRI screenings every two years following the initial surgery can help protect you against rupture.
  • Material isn’t the only thing you have to consider, you also have a say in the shape and size of your implant. For instance, if your goal is cleavage, fullness and an all-around more substantial lift, round implants are a popular choice. Whereas teardrop-shaped implants can help provide a more natural-appearing fullness.
  • If you’re planning to have a child post-augmentation, breastfeeding could be a complication. This is more of an FYI than a warning — some women have been able to breastfeed just fine post surgery. 

Now that you have a better idea of what you can expect from the breast implantation surgery as a whole, you have a better basis for choosing between silicone and saline. But before you make your choice, let’s go over the potential pros and cons of each implant material. 

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile salt water (same consistency as water!). Saline implants were created as an alternative to silicone fill and became very popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. They can be pre-filled or filled during the implant operation. Today, saline implants account for 44-percent of all breast augmentation surgeries. Though these types of implants can come in different sizes, they are typically more round in shape (compared to the teardrop-shaped implants we mentioned previously). Saline implants have either smooth or textured shells.   

Patients considering saline implants should be aware of a few advantages, such as less noticeable body scars and easy modification. When the surgeon fills the implant during the surgery, the initial incision is usually smaller than it would be for silicone implants. This also allows your doctor to change the size of your implants over time without needing an additional surgery due to a valve which your doctor can access with a small needle. 

Saline implants are considered to be the safest option. An estimated 45-percent of women who choose silicone gel implants have to undergo reoperations within 10 years of the initial surgery. Using the same timeframe, only 20 to 26-percent of patients who choose saline have to undergo reoperation. Though rupturing is an uncommon event — the rupture rate is 3 to 10-percent at 10 years — if it were to happen the saline would be absorbed by the patient’s body. There would be no need to remove substantial breast tissue. This makes the rupture of a saline implant less problematic than silicone. Due to these lower repercussions, the FDA has approved saline implants for patients 18 years of age and older, compared to silicone implants’ minimum age of 22.

While complaints against saline implants are relatively low, the one common complaint has been that they don’t feel as natural as silicone implants. Variation in surgery technique and modified training has lessened these complaints, although the feel of saline is still different from that of silicone. 

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants consist of silicone shells filled with silicone gel, and can encompass a variety of breast implant types — including the increasingly popular gummy bear implant (more on this in a bit!). In previous years, silicone implants have been hailed as being more “natural looking and feeling” than saline implants, but also present more health risks if they begin to leak. In fact, from 1992 to 2006, the use of silicone implants was halted by the FDA pending further research because they didn’t feel the implants were safe enough for public use. If you choose silicone breast implants, you may need to make more frequent visits to your plastic surgeon. An MRI or ultrasound can assess the condition of your silicone breast implants and whether they’re functioning properly. The FDA recommends women with silicone breast implants should receive an MRI every two years to check for ruptures or leaks within the implant shell.

Unlike saline implants, a rupture in a silicone implant can go undetectable. That’s because roaming silicone gel may remain trapped in the fibrous tissue that forms around the implant. This is known as a silent rupture. Although leaking silicone gel isn’t thought to cause any major health concerns, such as breast cancer, over time the rupture may cause breast pain, hardening, swelling, tingling, numbness or an uneven appearance of the breasts. Silicone ruptures are not incredibly common — the 10-year rupture rate for primary augmentation is between one and 10-percent. 

All that said, silicone implants have undergone a major overhaul: in addition to being perfectly safe, they have become widely popular. There are five types of silicone implants approved by the FDA. Each is manufactured slightly different, but the gummy bear is by far the most modern.

Gummy Bear Implants

The gummy bear implant is the newest choice on the block. Though it was introduced in the mid-2000’s, the FDA did not approve of them until 2012. Now, more than ever, women are seeking out gummy bear implants because of their natural look and feel. Because it’s a type of silicone implant, it’s only approved for adults over 22 years of age, or women of any age who are undergoing breast reconstruction following cancer. It is not approved for women who are pregnant or nursing. Gummy bear implants are great options for women who are looking for more volume in their breasts without the extreme shape of other options. These implants also provide a more natural droop to the bottom half of breasts. 

The gummy bear breast implant has made waves due to its original teardrop shape. Yes, it’s still a silicone shell filled with silicone gel, but its shape design helps contribute to its stability. Traditional saline and silicone implants are typically round in nature, but the gummy bear’s additional cross-linking results in a firmer shell that holds its shape, even when cut in half — much like a gummy bear candy. Clever, right? Essentially, that means in the event of a rupture, a gummy bear implant retains its shape. And not only do they retain their shape compared to other types of implants, they also stay naturally soft. Shape retaining plus a natural feel is a win-win. 

After years of studying gummy bear breast implants, which Dr. Love was a part of, the FDA has declared them safe and available to the public. While they add a more natural look to breast implants, they also require a larger incision during surgery. Like other implants, they may require additional surgeries in the future, and may become infected if not cared for properly. The gummy bear implant should not necessarily be considered “better” than the previous types of implants, just different to fit different needs: for women undergoing breast reconstruction, the gummy bear is ideal because it doesn’t require fitting around existing breast tissue.

Also, due to their strength, ruptures and leaks are less likely to occur in gummy bear implants than saline or other silicone options. But like their silicone counterparts, if leaks due occur they can be hard to detect. Regular MRIs and doctors visits are recommended to anyone who chooses gummy bear implants.

How do I choose my new Breast Implants?

Now that you know the basic differences between saline, silicone and gummy bear implants, you should be more prepared to make a decision on which options best suits your needs and lifestyle. However, this is an incredibly important decision! We recommend consulting with your plastic surgeon before making any final determinations. 

Dr. Tim Love is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a leader in breast augmentation in Oklahoma City. Dr. Love was one of only 20 U.S. surgeons selected to participate in the FDA’s historic “CORE” gel breast implant study leading to the reintroduction of gel implants in the U.S. During this study, he implanted the first patient in the U.S.

If you would like to schedule a personal consultation, please give us a call at 405-751-5683 or toll-free at 866-751-5683.

Feel free to check out Dr. Love’s patient testimonials to see what his clients have been saying! 

Saline v. Silicone Breast Implants and the Gummy Bear Implant: Choosing Your New Boobs

SALINE VS. SILICONE BREAST IMPLANTS AND THE GUMMY BEAR IMPLANT

When it comes to breast augmentation surgery, your concerns are likely focused around the size of your implants and the final outcome; though, there are several questions you might want to consider, including:

These are all valid questions and concerns — and we can answer each one of them! However, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is also one of the first: do you want silicone or saline breast implants? Your decision will ultimately come down to personal preference and aesthetic goals. But now, there’s a new option to consider. Gummy bear implants are a fresh take on silicone and were officially approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012. They have become increasingly popular over the past few years. We’ll get to why later in this article. To help ensure you make an informed decision between silicone, saline and gummy bear, we’ve created a guide that covers all three. 

Choose wisely. There are a few facts about breast implants that are simply universal. It’s important to separate fact and fiction when researching breast augmentation surgery information. Here’s what you need to know: 

  • They aren’t meant for a lifetime. Breast implants, regardless of what type you choose, aren’t meant to last forever. You’ll likely need to either replace or remove them at some point in your life. However, some implants do last longer than others, so be sure to ask your doctor.
  • You aren’t alone. More than 310,000 women and teenagers underwent breast surgery to have their breasts enlarged with silicone or saline implants in 2018. Since 1997, the popularity of breast augmentation surgery has tripled! 
  • Surgery is still surgery, which means you’re at risk for infection. Proper after-care is essential to ensuring your breast implants remain unharmed. In addition to infection, your implants may become uneven, deflate, rupture, wrinkle, or any other number of possible complications. Be sure to discuss these with your doctor.
  • Though complications from breast augmentation surgery have been documented, both saline and silicone breast implants are considered safe by the FDA.
  • Speaking of aftercare, you’ll likely need MRI screening for silent ruptures. Just as a precaution for your health, MRI screenings every two years following the initial surgery can help protect you against rupture.
  • Material isn’t the only thing you have to consider, you also have a say in the shape and size of your implant. For instance, if your goal is cleavage, fullness and an all-around more substantial lift, round implants are a popular choice. Whereas teardrop-shaped implants can help provide a more natural-appearing fullness.
  • If you’re planning to have a child post-augmentation, breastfeeding could be a complication. This is more of an FYI than a warning — some women have been able to breastfeed just fine post surgery. 

Now that you have a better idea of what you can expect from the breast implantation surgery as a whole, you have a better basis for choosing between silicone and saline. But before you make your choice, let’s go over the potential pros and cons of each implant material. 

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile salt water (same consistency as water!). Saline implants were created as an alternative to silicone fill and became very popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. They can be pre-filled or filled during the implant operation. Today, saline implants account for 44-percent of all breast augmentation surgeries. Though these types of implants can come in different sizes, they are typically more round in shape (compared to the teardrop-shaped implants we mentioned previously). Saline implants have either smooth or textured shells.   

Patients considering saline implants should be aware of a few advantages, such as less noticeable body scars and easy modification. When the surgeon fills the implant during the surgery, the initial incision is usually smaller than it would be for silicone implants. This also allows your doctor to change the size of your implants over time without needing an additional surgery due to a valve which your doctor can access with a small needle. 

Saline implants are considered to be the safest option. An estimated 45-percent of women who choose silicone gel implants have to undergo reoperations within 10 years of the initial surgery. Using the same timeframe, only 20 to 26-percent of patients who choose saline have to undergo reoperation. Though rupturing is an uncommon event — the rupture rate is 3 to 10-percent at 10 years — if it were to happen the saline would be absorbed by the patient’s body. There would be no need to remove substantial breast tissue. This makes the rupture of a saline implant less problematic than silicone. Due to these lower repercussions, the FDA has approved saline implants for patients 18 years of age and older, compared to silicone implants’ minimum age of 22.

While complaints against saline implants are relatively low, the one common complaint has been that they don’t feel as natural as silicone implants. Variation in surgery technique and modified training has lessened these complaints, although the feel of saline is still different from that of silicone. 

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants consist of silicone shells filled with silicone gel, and can encompass a variety of breast implant types — including the increasingly popular gummy bear implant (more on this in a bit!). In previous years, silicone implants have been hailed as being more “natural looking and feeling” than saline implants, but also present more health risks if they begin to leak. In fact, from 1992 to 2006, the use of silicone implants was halted by the FDA pending further research because they didn’t feel the implants were safe enough for public use. If you choose silicone breast implants, you may need to make more frequent visits to your plastic surgeon. An MRI or ultrasound can assess the condition of your silicone breast implants and whether they’re functioning properly. The FDA recommends women with silicone breast implants should receive an MRI every two years to check for ruptures or leaks within the implant shell.

Unlike saline implants, a rupture in a silicone implant can go undetectable. That’s because roaming silicone gel may remain trapped in the fibrous tissue that forms around the implant. This is known as a silent rupture. Although leaking silicone gel isn’t thought to cause any major health concerns, such as breast cancer, over time the rupture may cause breast pain, hardening, swelling, tingling, numbness or an uneven appearance of the breasts. Silicone ruptures are not incredibly common — the 10-year rupture rate for primary augmentation is between one and 10-percent. 

All that said, silicone implants have undergone a major overhaul: in addition to being perfectly safe, they have become widely popular. There are five types of silicone implants approved by the FDA. Each is manufactured slightly different, but the gummy bear is by far the most modern.

Gummy Bear Implants

The gummy bear implant is the newest choice on the block. Though it was introduced in the mid-2000’s, the FDA did not approve of them until 2012. Now, more than ever, women are seeking out gummy bear implants because of their natural look and feel. Because it’s a type of silicone implant, it’s only approved for adults over 22 years of age, or women of any age who are undergoing breast reconstruction following cancer. It is not approved for women who are pregnant or nursing. Gummy bear implants are great options for women who are looking for more volume in their breasts without the extreme shape of other options. These implants also provide a more natural droop to the bottom half of breasts. 

The gummy bear breast implant has made waves due to its original teardrop shape. Yes, it’s still a silicone shell filled with silicone gel, but its shape design helps contribute to its stability. Traditional saline and silicone implants are typically round in nature, but the gummy bear’s additional cross-linking results in a firmer shell that holds its shape, even when cut in half — much like a gummy bear candy. Clever, right? Essentially, that means in the event of a rupture, a gummy bear implant retains its shape. And not only do they retain their shape compared to other types of implants, they also stay naturally soft. Shape retaining plus a natural feel is a win-win. 

After years of studying gummy bear breast implants, which Dr. Love was a part of, the FDA has declared them safe and available to the public. While they add a more natural look to breast implants, they also require a larger incision during surgery. Like other implants, they may require additional surgeries in the future, and may become infected if not cared for properly. The gummy bear implant should not necessarily be considered “better” than the previous types of implants, just different to fit different needs: for women undergoing breast reconstruction, the gummy bear is ideal because it doesn’t require fitting around existing breast tissue.

Also, due to their strength, ruptures and leaks are less likely to occur in gummy bear implants than saline or other silicone options. But like their silicone counterparts, if leaks due occur they can be hard to detect. Regular MRIs and doctors visits are recommended to anyone who chooses gummy bear implants.

How do I choose my new Breast Implants?

Now that you know the basic differences between saline, silicone and gummy bear implants, you should be more prepared to make a decision on which options best suits your needs and lifestyle. However, this is an incredibly important decision! We recommend consulting with your plastic surgeon before making any final determinations. 

Dr. Tim Love is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a leader in breast augmentation in Oklahoma City. Dr. Love was one of only 20 U.S. surgeons selected to participate in the FDA’s historic “CORE” gel breast implant study leading to the reintroduction of gel implants in the U.S. During this study, he implanted the first patient in the U.S.

If you would like to schedule a personal consultation, please give us a call at 405-751-5683 or toll-free at 866-751-5683.

Feel free to check out Dr. Love’s patient testimonials to see what his clients have been saying!