Choices of implant manufacturers

The Different Manufacturers of Breast Implants: What You Need to Know

Choosing a breast implant isn’t only about size and shape. The manufacturer matters for safety, feel, longevity and long-term outcomes. Below is a patient-friendly comparison of the brands I most often discuss in clinic—GCA, Mentor and Motiva—plus answers to common questions.

What breast implants are made of

  • The shell (envelope): the outer layer that contains the filler.
  • The filler: usually a cohesive silicone gel that’s elastic and designed to stay in place even if the shell is damaged.
Why tech keeps changing: Implant shell and gel technologies improve over time. I periodically review brands and move to those with the best balance of softness, strength and low complication rates.

GCA (GC Aesthetics) Implants

Why I often use them: excellent balance of safety, softness and long-term performance.

Key advantages

  • Modern shell technology designed for durability.
  • Cohesive silicone gel that stays together rather than freely leaking.
  • Very low capsular contracture rates in my practice experience.
  • Micro-texture (~4–5 μm) aims for the “sweet spot” between smooth and rough to reduce complications, with a theoretical near-zero ALCL risk.

Bottom line: soft, natural feel with a strong safety profile.

Mentor Implants

Well-established US brand with a decades-long track record.

Key points

  • Long history & FDA-approved: used in millions of women worldwide.
  • Conservative evolution: designs have changed little over 20+ years—reassuring to some, less innovative to others.
  • Texture: typically rougher (~25 μm) than micro-textured options.

Bottom line: proven reliability with less emphasis on newer shell/gel innovations.

Motiva Implants

Innovation-focused brand known for soft feel and modern shell design.

Key points

  • Advanced shell & gel for a notably soft feel.
  • Past RFID chip feature helped identify the exact implant model; now discontinued due to MRI compatibility concerns.
  • Price: often higher—benefits vs. cost should be weighed.

Bottom line: modern design and softness at a premium price, without clear outcome superiority for most patients.

Surface types: smooth, textured and the “micro-texture” middle ground

  • Smooth: very low ALCL association, slightly higher capsular contracture risk.
  • Highly textured: historically used to reduce contracture; associated with higher ALCL risk.
  • Micro-textured (e.g., GCA, Motiva): aims to minimise both risks with a subtle surface (≈4–5 μm).

Choosing the right implant for you

  • Your cosmetic goals (natural vs. fuller/rounder upper-pole, cleavage emphasis).
  • Your body measurements and breast footprint.
  • Lifestyle (e.g., strong pectorals, sport).
  • Budget and your surgeon’s brand experience.

In many cases I favour GCA for their balance of softness, low complication rates and modern shell technology. The final choice is always shared between you and your surgeon after careful measurements and discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are long-lasting but not “lifetime devices.” Many women keep theirs 10–20+ years without issues. Changes in lifestyle, pregnancies, or preference may prompt earlier revision.
Do breast implants interfere with mammograms?
Implants can obscure some tissue on mammogram. Screening teams use special views and may add ultrasound or MRI to ensure accurate assessment.
What is capsular contracture?
It’s when the normal scar capsule tightens, making the breast feel firm or look distorted. Modern implants and meticulous technique keep rates low.
Can breast implants rupture?
Rupture is uncommon. With cohesive silicone gel, the material tends to remain together rather than freely leaking; a replacement can be arranged if needed.
What is ALCL and should I be worried?
Breast implant–associated ALCL is very rare and primarily linked to certain highly textured implants. With smooth or micro-textured shells, the theoretical risk is extremely low.
Do breast implants affect breastfeeding?
Most women can breastfeed with implants, especially with an inframammary crease incision. A small reduction in supply is possible depending on technique.
How do I choose the right brand and size?
Through a detailed consultation. We assess your measurements, skin quality, lifestyle and goals, then agree the brand, size, profile and placement (above/below muscle).