Allergan 410 (gummy bear implants)

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amyc917
amyc917 Member Posts: 13
edited March 2015 in Breast Reconstruction

Hello, 

I am getting my tissue expander swapped out this month for a permanent implant. I had a unilateral (left) mastectomy, followed by radiation (finished radiation 7 months ago). I consulted with numerous plastic surgeons and after much thought, i've selected one who initially recommended a DIEP flap reconstruction, but since I am not really intersted wrecking yet another part of my body, and spending another summer in bed recovering from surgery, I've opted for an implant only reconstruction. My plastic surgeon told me that the gummy bear implants tend to work better for women who have had radiation—less risk of capsulare contracture, etc. Plus they have a nice anatomical shape. However, I also see a physical therapist who works with alot of breats cancer patients post surgery. She told me that gummy bears were no good, because they become hard and stiff (especially when you are cold). She told me that most of her patients that have them are dissatisfied.

Can anyone who has allergan 410 (or similar gummy bear implant) weigh in on this?

thanks.

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  • ckmoss
    ckmoss Member Posts: 613
    edited May 2013

    I know your post was some time ago, but would love to know what you decided on.  I was thinking of doing these type of inplants but what you have posted now has me thinking again.  I have not had my mastectomy yet (only just decided to do this instead of lumpectomy yesterday and have been overwhelmed with all these decisions.  I definately do not want to wait on reconstruction but am having to make decisions fast.  My surgeon wants me do the FLAP, but inplants seem easier..but then what kind?...seems the decisions are never ending.

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  • GG27
    GG27 Member Posts: 2,128
    edited May 2013

    I have Allergan 410's & am very happy with them.  I thought they were just approved for use in the US?  Perhaps your PT is talking about a different type of silicone implant?  I have never found they get hard & stiff in the cold, they do feel a bit cooler than other parts of your body, but it's never bothered me.  PM me if you have any other questions that I can help with.  GG

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  • robinblessed54
    robinblessed54 Member Posts: 578
    edited February 2015

    i saw my PS today and I am thinking of going with the Gummies. More natural shape. Do you have any rippling? Thanks, Robin

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  • robinblessed54
    robinblessed54 Member Posts: 578
    edited March 2015

    well I got my Gummies on 3/5 and I am very happy. Still a bit swollen and I know it takes time for them to relax and soften up. But even if they look like they do now, I would be happy!

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  • knmtwins
    knmtwins Member Posts: 598
    edited March 2015

    So compared to almost full TEs (I'm at 610 in a 650) are they harder or squishier???

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  • robinblessed54
    robinblessed54 Member Posts: 578
    edited March 2015

    knmtwins, nothing compares to the rock hard TEs! They are already softer and I still have swelling. It takes at least 3 months for the implants to settle and soften. I hear I will love them. I have to wear a sport bra fir 6 weeks.

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