Breast Augmentation Clinical Trials

Although modern, FDA-approved breast augmentation techniques and products offer more natural looking results and shorter recovery periods than ever before, experts continue to develop new approaches to the procedure. The use of cohesive silicone gel implants and fat transfer in breast augmentation surgery, for example, is popular in Europe and South America, but is not yet widely available in the United States. Both techniques seem to offer a range of benefits though and could become more prevalent in the future.

If you are considering breast augmentation and are interested in cohesive silicone gel implants or fat transfer, you may have limited options. As rules currently stand in the United States, it can be difficult to undergo either of these procedures. However, many women have chosen to participate in breast augmentation clinical trials so the FDA can determine if use of cohesive silicone gel implants and fat transfer are safe and effective breast augmentation methods.

Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants

Cohesive silicone gel implants (“gummy bear” implants) have been used in breast augmentation procedures in Europe since 1995. They are also approved for use in Canada and Australia and offer several benefits over use of standard silicone implants. Cohesive silicone gel implants consist of a durable shell that was designed to prevent gel leakage. The shell is filled with a thick silicone gel solution that mimics the appearance and feel of natural breasts. Cohesive silicone gel implants are less likely to ripple or fold because the silicone gel solution retains its shape despite constant bodily movement. If the shell does tear, the gel stays in place.

Currently, cohesive silicone gel implants are not available for use in the United States unless patients join a clinical trial designed to test the product's safety.

Breast Augmentation through Fat Transfer

The breast augmentation fat transfer procedure, also known as stem cell breast augmentation and lipoaugmentation, has been performed in the United States for several years on a limited basis with varying results. Medical companies are working to perfect the technique by developing stem cell and fat harvesting systems that are available in Europe and Asia, but are still seeking FDA approval in the United States for these technologies. During the fat transfer breast augmentation procedure, fat is removed from the buttocks, thighs, or another area of the body. The fat is then prepared so it can be injected into the breasts to create more volume and lift. Many doctors and patients prefer this methodology, as it does not involve the use of implants, thus eliminating the risk of implant-related complications, and provides body contouring benefits as well.

Breast Augmentation Clinical Trials – Join One

If you are interested in undergoing breast augmentation using cohesive silicone gel implants or fat transfer, check the government's clinical trials website to see if you can participate in a study. Additionally, though not popular, some doctors do perform breast augmentation with fat transfer; to find out if a plastic surgeon in your area offers the procedure, find a qualified surgeon through our nationwide DocShop network.

Contact a Plastic Surgeon

If you would like to undergo breast augmentation and have questions regarding your candidacy, the risks and benefits, or cost of treatment, contact a plastic surgeon today. Discussing your goals with a cosmetic surgeon can set you on a path to renewed confidence.