The FDA has approved Mentor’s MemoryShape™ silicone gel breast implants, bringing to 5 the total number of silicone implants available for breast augmentation and reconstruction. As with other shaped implants from Allergan and Sientra, these are filled with highly cohesive silicone gel, are anatomically shaped, and may be used for breast reconstruction or augmentation in patients older than 22 years of age. The “highly cohesive” gel is a result of increased cross-linking, or number of bonds linking one silicone chain to another. This results in a firmer gel that holds its shape once inserted under the breast, rather than the softer silicone gel previously available. Silicone implants are available in a range of sizes and projections, or degree to which the implant protrudes in front of the chest, allowing for individualized approach to breast augmentation for each patient.
Data collected thus far by Mentor has, according to the FDA, provided a “reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness” of these new implants. Post-approval studies are required to be conducted by the manufacturer, and will address medical issues including long-term local complications, less common potential disease outcomes like arthritis, and rare diseases such as connective tissue disease, neurological disease and cancer.
Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the US, and can provide women with fuller, shapelier breasts. It can also improve breast asymmetry and restore volume to the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Breast implant surgery may be combined with other procedures, such as breast lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction as part of a mommy makeover, as well as with facial rejuvenation procedures such as eyelid lift and rhinoplasty.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a female board certified plastic surgeon in NYC with specialty fellowship training in aesthetic surgery. She offers breast augmentation with saline and silicone implants as well as the full range of aesthetic plastic surgery procedures in the safety, comfort and privacy of her AAAASF certified Operating Room. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hutchinson, please contact us or call us at (212) 452-1400.
