Looking Your Best by Allergan Aesthetics

Cohesive Gel Implants

Breast augmentation with anatomical cohesive gel implants,
Per Heden, MD, PhD,
et al, Clinics in Plastic Surgery, Vol. 28 No. 3, July 2001, pg 531-552

What are the advantages and disadvantages of cohesive gel implants?

Advantages

They provide a proportionate-sized breast augmentation with a very soft and natural-feeling breast implant.

Maintains its shape in the upright position (has a "memory"). This decreases the chance of folding or rippling.

Desirable implants in both breast enhancement and reconstruction cases.

If ruptured, it maintains both its shape and integrity.

12 models of anatomic cohesive gel implants varying in height, projection and base width can be tailored to your body dimensions.

Disadvantages

A slightly larger incision is required in the fold under the breast or occasionally through an incision around the areola.

Very difficult to insert through the armpit.

Slightly more expensive than conventional saline implants.

What are the complications associated with cohesive gel implants?

Complications are similar to those in any breast augmentation. The largest published study showed an overall capsular contracture (hardening of tissue around the implant) rate of less than 5%. Most were minor in nature. Infection rates were 1/4 % and improper positioning of the implant was 1.1%.

Are silicone implants safe?

Please refer to the information brochure "The Safety of Silicone".

How should I proceed if I am interested in finding out more about cohesive gel implants?

The consultation with a Board Certified plastic surgeon will determine whether you are a proper candidate for the Style 410 implants. These implants require an application to Health Canada by your surgeon. Upon approval, you may proceed.

Your plastic surgeon will help you select the implant and its size and dimension that best suit your needs and desires.

What "downtime" is associated with this procedure?

Following your surgery, the typical recovery time is one week, sometimes longer depending if the implants are placed under or over the muscle. Swelling, some discomfort and the possibility of bruising will occur. Usually patients can resume normal activity without heavy lifting within 4-5 days.