There are several different kinds of breast implant materials for patients to choose from. Some are filled with silicone, a gel-like substance that many believe mimics the feel of natural breasts, while others are filled with saline, a sterile salt water substance that can be used on patients as young as 18 years of age. Each has its own set of pros and cons, and depending on the patient’s individual preference as well as body frame size, one may be a better choice over the other.
Breast augmentation surgery has certainly come a long way over the years as innovative treatments become available, catering to different body types and cosmetic goals. But now, a revolutionary new type of implant is ready for use in the U.S. and may offer patients a whole new perspective on breast enhancement.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has just approved MemoryShape Breast Implants for use in the United States, which promises a more “natural look and youthful firmness” for patients. The revolutionary implants, created by Mentor Worldwide LLC, have already been around for over a decade but this is the first time they have become approved in the United States.
Composed of a special silicone cohesive gel, the MemoryShape implants are unique in many ways. Unlike traditional round breast implants, MemoryShape Breast Implants have a teardrop shape, making giving them a gentle slope that resembles that of a natural breast. And unlike other silicone gel implants, MemoryShape Breast Implants also feature SILTEX® Texture, which allows them to be held firmly in place so patients don’t have to worry about their implants moving or changing shape. Breast implants can either have a smooth or textured shell surface. Textured surfaces are better when choosing teardrop shaped implants, which are heavier toward the bottom and have a greater chance of shifting than round breast implants, which are uniform in shape and can better hold their position.
Approval for the implants comes after a trial examined 955 patients who received the MemoryShape implants throughout a six year period. According to the FDA, the data from the study provides “reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for this implant.” However, approval for use in the U.S. is provided on the condition that Mentor monitor the women who have these implants and research possible long-term effects.
Women 22 years of age and older can get MemoryShape Breast Implants now for either breast augmentation or breast reconstruction purposes.
For women under 22 years of age, Mentor offers a similar option called MemoryGel Breast Implants. These implants are an option for women as young as 18 years of age because they are made of a special saline cohesive gel. MemoryGel Breast Implants may be better for women who would like a wider range of options for their implants, such as texture and size. These implants are available in both smooth and textured surfaces and in four profile options: Moderate, Moderate Plus, High and Ultra High Profile so patients can control the shape and size of their implants.
To find out if MemoryShape is right for you, contact Dr. David Shafer today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast implants are primarily made from two types of materials: silicone gel and saline. Silicone implants contain a gel-like substance that closely mimics the feel of natural breasts, while saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and are often recommended for younger patients starting at age 18. Each type has its own advantages and considerations depending on individual preferences and body types.
MemoryShape Breast Implants are unique due to their teardrop shape, which provides a gentle slope that resembles natural breast contours. They are filled with a special silicone cohesive gel and feature SILTEX® Texture, which helps keep the implant firmly in place, reducing the risk of shifting or changing shape compared to traditional round implants.
Women aged 22 years and older are eligible to receive MemoryShape Breast Implants for breast augmentation or reconstruction purposes. The FDA has approved these implants based on clinical trials demonstrating their safety and effectiveness for this age group.
The FDA approval signifies that MemoryShape Breast Implants have undergone rigorous clinical trials involving 955 patients over six years, providing reasonable assurance of their safety and effectiveness. However, ongoing monitoring by the manufacturer is required to study long-term effects.
Implant surfaces can be smooth or textured. Textured surfaces, like the SILTEX® Texture on MemoryShape implants, help the implant adhere to surrounding tissue, preventing movement or rotation. This is especially important for teardrop-shaped implants, which are heavier at the bottom and more prone to shifting than round implants.
For women aged 18 to 21, Mentor offers MemoryGel Breast Implants, which are made from a special saline cohesive gel. These implants come in both smooth and textured surfaces and offer four profile options, allowing younger patients more customization in shape and size.
MemoryGel Breast Implants are available in four profile options: Moderate, Moderate Plus, High, and Ultra High Profile. These options allow patients to select the desired projection and shape of their implants to better match their cosmetic goals and body frame.
Yes, MemoryShape Breast Implants are approved for both breast augmentation and breast reconstruction purposes. Their natural shape and texture make them suitable for reconstructive surgeries following mastectomy or other breast-related procedures.
Patients interested in MemoryShape Breast Implants should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. David Shafer, to discuss their individual body type, cosmetic goals, and medical history. A free consultation can help determine the best implant option tailored to their needs.
