AZ patients buzz about 'Gummy Bear' implants - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

The buzz is growing louder about a new kind of breast implant recently approved by the FDA.

More women are bursting at the seams to learn more about the new "Gummy Bear" implants.

Dr. Robert Cohen was one of the first local surgeons to start using Gummy Bear implants at his Paradise Valley practice.

Cohen participated in the clinical trials, before their FDA approval, with the doctor who coined the term.

"But when Dr. Stevens, who I worked with in my fellowship, looked at the implants he said, "Yeah, they really feel like Gummy Bears.' Patients like the idea. It makes sense to them."

Cohen said the "Gummy Bear" implant is firm and solid. It's peace of mind for patients worried about a possible tear or rupture.

"You can cut the implant in half. Hold it upside down, and it won't spill out," Cohen said.

Only one company, Sientram is FDA approved to make the new implants. They just debuted at a trade show in New Orleans, the largest gathering of plastic surgeons in the world.

"It's pretty exciting news because for a long time, we've just had two manufacturers," Cohen said. "Now we have a third one that's FDA approved."

They come textured, to cling better to muscle and keep from slipping out of pocket. They come in round, or tear-shaped form.

They'll only be available to board-certified plastic surgeons.

"Breast implants are the most studied medical device in history, which always surprises patients because of the controversies of the early 90s," Cohen said. "Huge amounts of studies were done to prove the safety of these implants. It's just been one study after another, leading up to where we are today."

Cohen said the cost is comparable to any silicone implants. He's actually on his way to Stockholm, Sweden where he was invited to work with some of the best surgeons in the world on new techniques for these new,"Gummy Bear" implants.

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