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"More is More" With Super-Sized "Gummy Bear" High-Strength Gel Implants

by Dr. Grant Stevens

With modern advances in plastic surgery, breast size, like any other enhancement, is a matter of personal choice. Now, women who dream of a curvier, fuller figure can double-even triple-their breast size with super large silicone high strength gel implants.

August 15, 2005 - Only two years after their FDA approval for testing, silicone high strength gel implants are offering yet another breakthrough in cosmetic breast surgery. Originally designed for a softer, more natural look, the implants were previously only available to women who wanted to enlarge their breasts to sizes below a "D" cup. However, Dr. Grant Stevens, one of a few surgeons participating in the FDA's clinical trial, recently began testing larger versions of the implants with clients who desire much more sizeable breasts.

"For those women who want a more voluptuous look, we can now offer a safer, more natural feeling alternative than what had previously been available," said Dr. Stevens, who performs the procedures. Using new high strength gel implants that vary in size from 600 to 1,000cc, Dr. Stevens can achieve cup sizes that range from "D" to "DDD."

Like the smaller versions, larger high strength gel implants are made of a tightly constructed silicone that produces a semi-solid texture. This texture is similar to the feel of a "gummy bear" when cut and results in better shape retention. It also makes the implants less apt to leak- a potential health concern with older silicone implants.

Other advantages of the high strength gel implant, when compared to saline implants, include a look that is more similar to natural breasts. The implant maintains its upright position and is less likely to cause folding and rippling. In addition, to achieve larger sizes, saline implants are often overfilled, which can result in hardness. Clients experience a softer feel with high strength gel implants.

"Though they may be larger, there's no reason for a woman to be afraid that high strength gel implants will make her look like she's had the typical 'boob job,'" said Dr. Stevens, "they just provide a higher-quality look and feel." Even in patients who have had mastectomies, high strength gel implants appear smoother than saline implants, which are difficult to camouflage when breast tissue has been removed.

Women who are interested in participating in the study must commit to periodic follow-up exams for ten years after the procedure is completed. Prior to acceptance, they will be required to undergo and pass several physical exams, diagnostic tests, health screenings and mammograms. The procedures must be either a first breast augmentation or reconstruction surgery. However, women who have had prior breast implant surgery will be accepted. Participants must cover the cost of the surgery and implants, but will be paid $50 per follow-up appointment, for a total of $650 over the ten-year period.

Dr. Grant Stevens is a board-certified plastic surgeon and the Medical Director of Plastic Surgery Associates. He specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery and has been named one of America's Best Physicians in The Guide to Top Doctors. Dr. Stevens was nominated by his colleagues, which makes this recognition especially prestigious and rewarding. He is an active member at Daniel Freeman Hospital where he is the past Chairman of the Department of Surgery, the past Chairman of the Liposuction Committee, and the past co-director of the Breast Center. He is also on staff at St. John's<

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