GC Aesthetics (“GCA”), a medical technology company providing healthcare aesthetic solutions for global healthcare markets, announced today several recent positive developments for the Company, demonstrating continued progress on its U.S. and international growth strategy.

Initiating Clinical Study to Support FDA Approval. 

On December 31, 2018, GCA signed a letter of intent with ICON Clinical Research Limited (ICON), a global Clinical Medical Research Organization, whereby ICON will provide clinical and regulatory services to support a FDA Pre-Market Approval for GC Aesthetics breast implants for both aesthetic and reconstructive indications within the United States. The agreement is linked to a multi-year GC Aesthetics Silicone Gel Breast Implant Pivotal Study. GCA expects to submit an Investigational Device Exemption application to the FDA in the second half of 2019.

Appointment of U.S. Leadership  

In conjunction with the Company’s engagement with ICON, GCA also recently announced the appointment of Ron Cosmas as U.S. Project Manager. In this position, Mr. Cosmas will establish a local presence for GCA in the United States, and will be responsible for cultivating brand awareness, instituting a key opinion leader network and spearheading the FDA approval process for GCA breast implant products in the United States. Mr. Cosmas has over 20 years of experience working with aesthetic medical device companies in the U.S. with key players such as McGhan Medical, Allergan, Sientra, Keller Medical and OBP Medical. He has significant experience with, and expertise in, the U.S. FDA regulatory approval process. 

Appointment to the Board of Directors. 

GCA is also excited to announce the appointment of Mariano García-Valiño to the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. García-Valiño has been active at the intersection of healthcare, strategy and entrepreneurship for over 25 years. Most recently, Mr.  García-Valiño was CEO of GBT (B3:GBIO33), a biopharmaceutical company with presence in the 10 largest Latin American markets that he helped to build and then took public in 2017. Prior to GBT, Mr. García-Valiño led the Latin-American business for Bausch+Lomb, and had various senior executive roles with Pfizer, Eli Lilly, McKinsey, Advent International and Warburg Pincus in Europe, the United States and Latin-America. Mr. Garcia-Valiño holds an engineering degree from Universidad de Buenos Aires and an MBA from the Harvard Business School.  He is based in Montevideo, Uruguay.

“We are thrilled about the recent developments and progress at GC Aesthetics.”  Said Carlos Reis Pinto, Chief Executive Officer of GC Aesthetics. “We are committed to advancing our products for women seeking safe, empowering breast augmentation or reconstruction solutions. The combination of adding aesthetic industry veteran Ron Cosmas to our team and our partnership with global clinical research leader ICON will help us in achieving our strategy of bringing our new generation of breast implant technology to the United States. I also welcome Mariano García-Valiño to our board. Mariano brings invaluable experience in the healthcare aesthetics industry, and his insights in scaling operations in fast-growing international aesthetics markets will be essential as we expand our market leadership and build the new standard in helping women around the world be their best-self.”

About GC Aesthetics

GC Aesthetics (“GCA”) is an established global medical technology company that develops, manufactures in-house and markets a comprehensive range of proprietary aesthetic products that empower patients to feel safe and confident on their personal journey. Through 30 years of commercial presence, GCA has been dedicated to advancing the science of medical aesthetics and delivering high-quality products under its premium Nagor and Eurosilicone brands, primarily for breast augmentation and breast reconstructive surgery. More than 2.5 million women and men across 70 countries have trusted GCA products, which are supported by published 10-year clinical data demonstrating compelling safety and clinical effectiveness. The Company’s vertically-integrated strategy enables exceptional clinical, operational and commercial performance, which allows GCA to provide competitively differentiated products to physicians and patients. Through a culture of continuous innovation and dedication to customer-responsiveness, GCA has established itself as a leading provider of medical aesthetics solutions and the partner-of-choice for patients seeking to improve their lives. 

Contacts

GC Aesthetics

[email protected]

DUBLIN, IRELAND / ACCESSWIRE / October 29, 2018 / GC Aesthetics (“GCA”), a medical technology company providing aesthetic solutions for global healthcare markets, announced today that the company has raised $97 million of new capital. The financing comprises a combination of debt, provided by Hayfin Capital Management (“Hayfin”), and an equity investment from GCA’s existing investors, including Montreux Equity Partners, Barry’s Tea and Oyster Capital Partners. Proceeds from the financing will be used to refinance GCA’s outstanding debt, to fund advancement of an IDE study to support FDA approval of the Company’s breast implant products in the United States, and to fund additional product innovation and growth initiatives at GCA. “We are very pleased with the strong support from our existing investors and are delighted to have Hayfin, who is a preeminent lender in the healthcare space, as our new lending partner,” commented Carlos Reis Pinto, Chief Executive Officer of GCA. “This financing, along with our continued solid financial performance, validates the strength and potential of our global, vertically-integrated healthcare aesthetics implant business. Additionally, the refinancing of our existing debt provides GCA with financial flexibility to pursue strategic growth initiatives, including the possibility of entering the U.S. market with our competitively differentiated products.” Howard Rowe, Managing Director and Head of Healthcare at Hayfin, stated, “Hayfin looks to back innovative, high-growth healthcare businesses and our investment in GCA, with its leadership position in its key markets and global expansion plans, is consistent with this strategy. We look forward to partnering with GCA’s management team to help achieve the Company’s strategic growth objectives and capitalize on the opportunities for GCA to expand its position in the global aesthetics industry.” About GC Aesthetics GC Aesthetics (“GCA”) is an established global medical technology company that develops, manufactures in-house and markets a comprehensive range of proprietary aesthetic products that empower patients to feel safe and confident on their personal journey. Through 30 years of commercial presence, GCA has been dedicated to advancing the science of medical aesthetics and delivering high-quality products under its premium Nagor and Eurosilicone brands, primarily for breast augmentation and breast reconstructive surgery. More than 2.5 million women and men across 70 countries have trusted GCA products, which are supported by published 10-year clinical data demonstrating compelling safety and clinical effectiveness. The Company’s vertically-integrated strategy enables exceptional clinical, operational and commercial performance, which allows GCA to provide competitively differentiated products to physicians and patients. Through a culture of continuous innovation and dedication to customer-responsiveness, GCA has established itself as a leading provider of medical aesthetics solutions and the partner-of-choice for patients seeking to improve their lives. About Hayfin Capital Management Hayfin Capital Management is a leading European-headquartered credit platform that provides lending solutions to corporates and asset management services to institutional clients. Since it was founded in 2009, Hayfin has extended more than €14 billion in loans to over 285 companies. The firm’s total assets under management are valued at c.€10 billion. Hayfin makes public and private investments across the liquidity spectrum through five strategies: direct lending, special opportunities, high-yield credit & syndicated loans, securitized credit, and private equity funds. Hayfin has a diverse international team of over 90 experienced industry professionals. The firm is headquartered in London and has offices in Frankfurt, Madrid, Paris, Luxembourg, New York, and Tel Aviv. Hayfin is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Further information can be found at hayfin.com. Contacts GC Aesthetics [email protected]

Eurosilicone Breast Implants Demonstrate Exceptional Safety Rates Breast Augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgery treatment in the world. As the number of augmentations continues to rise, safety has never been more important. With a strong commitment to setting the ‘Gold Standard’ in care, quality and safety for patients and surgeons alike, GC Aesthetics, a global leader in the medical aesthetics space, is conducting a 10-year long-term clinical study into the safety of the implants expertly produced by one of their brands, Eurosilicone. This is the eight-year interim results update of this ten-year prospective clinical study which reviewed the safety and performance of Eurosilicone’s breast implants at 17 private and university hospitals in France. In total, 526 women were involved in the study, in a total of 995 implants. This study was recently published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal. Eurosilicone’s results demonstrated a very high safety rate. With a rupture rate of less than 2%and a reoperation rate of 3.6%, the findings were shown to be lower than the nine-year study reported by other breast implant manufacturers. Ayse Kocak, CEO of GC Aesthetics comments, “As a global leader in the breast implant space, GC Aesthetics is committed to defining and upholding the ‘Gold Standard’ when it comes to safety, care and quality. I believe this study is the largest prospective study of breast implants in Europe. We thrive on delivering the best possible products, and the results of the eight-year study further demonstrate our very high safety rate which should give our surgeons and their patients further peace of mind.

“Whilst we are delighted to see these results, we will continue to use these findings to help further enhance our services and products to ensure we offer the very best to both surgeons and patients.”

Dublin – 23rd of February 2017 – A leading global breast implant manufacturer has today announced that it will be funding research into the socio-economic impact of breast cancer diagnoses. GC Aesthetics, a leading medical aesthetics and breast implant company, is working alongside internationally revered plastic surgeons to curate in-depth research that not only explores the social and economic changes the diagnosis of breast cancer has on women, but also the possible impact on their work, sexuality and even children. The aim of the study is to analyse the overarching effect of breast cancer diagnoses on women’s lives and families, spearheaded by high-profile names such as Spanish plastic surgeon Professor Jaume Masia. It will include interviewing women about the impact breast cancer has had on their sexuality, household and social activities, work and their children. An estimated 175 women will take part over a three-month period, which commenced in December 2016 and will run to March 2017, and it is hoped the pilot study will lead on to a further, more comprehensive European study. Clinicians responsible for visiting breast cancer patients, such as Professor Masia, have contributed towards the creation of the survey and, along with GC Aesthetics, are seeking to ensure that data is collected sensitively. Professor Masia, the leading investigator of the study says, “This is a groundbreaking study which aims, for the first time, to quantify the significant impact that a lack of reconstruction can have to a woman. Our hypothesis is that the long term cost to society is much higher than the actual cost of the reconstruction and we are delighted to be working with GC Aesthetics on this important project.” GC Aesthetics, the parent company of both the UK’s only breast implant manufacturer, Nagor (www.nagor.com), and French sister brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com), is committed to caring for women before and following their breast cancer journey. With a heritage of over 30 years and known for their commitment for quality and safety, GC Aesthetics sells products in over 80 countries; and has previously released a set of videos for Breast Cancer Awareness, which gave health and nutrition tips to help to holistically support women through reconstructive surgery. GC Aesthetics’ Chief Executive Ayse Kocak, who is the industry’s only female CEO, says: “GC Aesthetics is a company committed to the support of women from diagnosis to recovery, and beyond. By funding this research into the far-reaching impact breast cancer can have on a woman, her activities and surroundings, we will be given an insight into how best we can help support them and their families through this time. We are delighted to be working with internationally renowned surgeons such as Professor Masia, and we look forward to offering care in any way we can.” The survey plan has already been approved by the Clinical Research Institutional Review Board of the Hospital de Sant Pau in Barcelona, and the specific objectives are as follows:

• To assess the perception of possible academic impact on children of women diagnosed with breast cancer.
• To determine the perception of social and economic impact in the short and intermediate term of women diagnosed with breast cancer.
• To explore the determinants of social and economic changes in the short and intermediate term of women diagnosed with breast cancer.
• To determine the short and intermediate impact on work in women diagnosed with breast cancer.
• To explore the perception of social and economic welfare in relation to the disease in women diagnosed with breast cancer.
• To assess the current quality of life of women diagnosed with breast cancer.
• To pilot this project in order to plan a future European study.

GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), a leading global breast implant company today announces the introduction of its fastest-growing, innovative products IMPLEO and The Matrix to Brazil, the largest breast implant market globally outside the US. Both products will be launched to the Brazilian market in the autumn of this year. GC Aesthetics, parent company of UK-based Nagor (www.nagor.com) where the innovative, new generation IMPLEO is manufactured and France-based Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com) where The Matrix is manufactured, produces over 300,000 implants annually, sold to over 75 countries. GC Aesthetics continues to experience strong growth globally. Last year the company increase their number of global surgeon users by over 60%. The Brazilian launch of its leading brands will help accelerate further growth to achieve its vision to become the number one breast implant brand outside of the US. IMPLEO, GC Aesthetics’ newest round product, is a 6th generation breast implant offering the unique SiloGel Twist gel. It combines a soft yet form stable gel, finally allowing women to have the best of both worlds – a breast that feels both natural to the touch and yet keeps its desired shape and consistency. IMPLEO challenges the outdated paradigm in breast implants that meant soft implants could not be form stable – this product has achieved a global sales growth rate of 75% in the first half of 2016. Fortaleza, a beautiful city in the North East of Brazil, will host the National Plastic Surgery Congress in November and will serve as a great stage for the launch of IMPLEO. The Matrix, a fast-growing anatomical implant designed for performance, gives women natural results and additional breast projection. It can be used for both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, where it matches GC Aesthetics breast expanders. The Matrix was showcased during the prestigious Jornada Carioca de Cirurgia Plastica in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the end of August. With the launch of its latest ranges in Brazil, GC Aesthetics will continue its long tradition of offering surgeons and their patients high-quality devices, while further consolidating its number one position in the Brazilian market.

GC AESTHETICS PRESENTS THE “SCIENCE FOR EXCELLENCE EDUCATIONAL SERIES” with Per Hedén Bringing World-Class Training to Surgeons across the Globe Dublin – 3rd October 2016 – A leading global breast implant manufacturer has today announced it will deliver a series of scientific lectures in partnership with an internationally acclaimed plastic surgeon. GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), which is fast becoming the number one selling implant brand worldwide, is set to work with well renowned Stockholm-based surgeon Per Hedén on the Science for Excellence Educational Series, due to launch in Busan and Seoul, South Korea on October 4th and 5th. GC Aesthetics, based in Dublin, is the parent company of both the UK’s only breast implant manufacturer, Nagor, and French brand, Eurosilicone. In recent years, it has cemented itself as one of the world’s most popular implant brands; it is now the number one selling brand in Brazil, Mexico and Spain, and is set to reach number one position in France by the end of 2016. Dr Hedén, is known for having developed several new techniques applying to the use of form-stable anatomical breast implants, has chosen to work alongside GC Aesthetics as they share the common vision of improving patient satisfaction and surgical outcomes. The lectures will focus on this, as well as providing surgeons with new surgical and pre-planning skills. Dr Hedén says:

“I am delighted to be working with GC Aesthetics, with the common goal of improving the implant selection process, preoperative markings and surgical technique for surgeons, and I am very much looking forward to presenting the series of lectures at the Science for Excellence Educational Series. It is of utmost importance that surgeons are kept up-to-date on new techniques, as well as being aware of ways in which outcomes and satisfaction can be improved upon.”

Dr. Per Hedén studied under the eminent microsurgeon, Marko Godina, and subsequently became the driving force for establishing microsurgery in Stockholm. He is the author of over 50 scientific papers, and is often asked to give lectures at national and international plastic surgery conferences and events. Dr. Hedén is the founder of Akademikliniken, Scandinavia’s largest private plastic surgery hospital. GC Aesthetics’ Chief Executive, Ayse Kocak, who is the industry’s first-ever female CEO, adds:

“Working alongside such a renowned surgeon, who also uses our products, is a real honour for us. We share a common vision of the importance of patient satisfaction, and by working together to deliver this series of lectures, we are certain that we can help with the provision of new skills for surgeons.”

A leading global breast implant manufacturer has today announced the launch of two exciting new products in South Korea. GC Aesthetics, which aims to become the number one breast implant manufacturer in the world, is hoping to build upon its existing success by introducing Eurosilicone’s The Matrix and The Round Collection to the flourishing South Korean market. GC Aesthetics, is the parent company of both the UK’s only breast implant manufacturer, Nagor, and French brand, Eurosilicone. It has teamed with one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in Korea, the prestigious CKD, who will distribute the new collections nationwide. The launch events will be led by world-renowned Professor Per Hedén, who is known for having developed innovative new techniques when working with breast implants, alongside Dr. Han-jo Kim, a plastic surgeon from South Korea, who trained at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, New York and now practises at Eight Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul. Eurosilicone developed The Matrix range of implants for patients who prefer an anatomical (teardrop-shaped) implant. The range offers 102 variations, giving the patient a wide choice of possible looks. The Round Collection, to be launched at the same time, comes in 219 variations, including a choice of both shells and gels. All GC Aesthetics implants have a ParagelGard 360-degree Barrier Layer, which is designed to minimise any gel ‘bleeding’, and the cohesive gel aims to ensure that in the unlikely event of a rupture, the gel will not migrate. GC Aesthetics’ Chief Executive, Ayse Kocak, who is the industry’s first-ever female CEO, says:

“Korea is a very important market for GC Aesthetics, and one that we are, and always have been, extremely excited about. We are delighted to be working alongside a partner as distinguished as CKD, and are equally as pleased to have the opportunity and honour of launching the collections with Professor Hedén and Dr. Han-jo Kim.”

GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), a leading global breast implants company, today announced the completion of a $20 million Series D financing round. The financing included participation from existing investors Montreux Equity Partners, Oyster Capital, and Barry’s Tea Holdings. GC Aesthetics will use the proceeds from this financing to accelerate growth to achieve its vision to become the leading breast implant company selling outside of the United States. It will continues to expand its commercial operations, launch its leading sixth generation product IMPLEO globally, invest in product innovation, and further improve customer service. GC Aesthetics, the parent company of UK-based Nagor (www.nagor.com) and France-based Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com), produces more than 325,000 implants annually, which are marketed in over 75 countries. The company employs around 400 people globally. Last year, GC Aesthetics grew its customer base by over 60% and experienced strong growth globally. The drivers of this customer growth include the quality and range of its products and the company’s focus on customer service through its We Care philosophy, which puts the needs of surgeons and customers at the heart of every decision. “GC Aesthetics is making excellent progress in establishing itself as the leading breast implant provider in many markets globally. We are delighted to continue to work with a company that is progressing strongly on its vision to become the trusted brand in female aesthetics,” said Daniel K. Turner III, Managing Director of Montreux Equity Partners. The industry’s first-ever female chief executive, GC Aesthetics’ CEO Ayse Kocak, says of the new round of private financing:

“We are delighted with the continued support from our valued shareholders and are confident that their trust in GC Aesthetics will be rewarded by our continued expansion and growth. We are excited to receive this boost of capital to strengthen our position as one of the world’s leading breast implant manufacturers.”

About GC Aesthetics GC Aesthetics is a leading female aesthetics company committed to becoming the trusted brand and partner for women seeking to look healthy, youthful, vibrant and beautiful, and to feel confident about themselves throughout their lifetime. The Company is focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of one of the broadest ranges of implant products, principally silicone breast implants. The Company has manufacturing facilities in the United Kingdom and France, and its implants are manufactured with medical-grade silicone supplied from ISO 9001-certified sources. GC Aesthetics is headquartered in Dublin.

GC Aesthetics, the experts in silicone, has now launched Silgel™ direct to the consumer for the first time. The go-to product for scar management, Silgel™ is a clear, non-sticky, pure silicone gel, which is clinically proven to be effective in treating both new and existing hypertrophic (red) and keloidal (raised) scars. Having long been used by Surgeons as part of their patient’s aftercare for over 15 years, Silgel™now looks set to revolutionise the consumer market. Scarring is an issue that affects nearly all of us, a fact that is reflected in the continued growth of the scar treatment market. In 2014, the global market was valued at $15 billion, yet by 2019 this value is expected to grow at 10% and to reach a colossal $24 billion! 1 This extensive growth is attributed to our growing focus on aesthetics. Where once we may have lived with scarring, a desire to always look our best and a growing awareness around the effectiveness of OTC scar treatment products has fuelled a movement to combat scarring from our daily lives. In addition, with more consumers than ever having surgery – both medical and aesthetic, it is no surprise that those seeking out a solution to combat post-surgical scarring now dominate the demand in the sector, accounting for up to 32% of the market. 1 The launch of Silgel™ to the consumer marks a key step in addressing this increasing demand for effective scar healing solutions. “Using our extensive silicone expertise and feedback from surgeons we have created an effective and easy to use product to fade away unwanted scars. We are delighted to now bring to the consumer for the first time. If we can help our customers live a happy and confident life then we are succeeding in our values and aims.”Ayse Kocak, CEO of GC Aesthetics Developed to reduce the visibility and flatten the scar, Silgel™ works by creating a barrier on the skin which helps to retain moisture and in turn, encourages the skin’s own natural healing process. The result is a smoother, softer and more even appearance. is easy-to-apply making it convenient to use on a daily basis. The clear formula makes it aesthetically pleasing as well. Silgel™ dries fast leading to no stains on your clothes. Thanks to its proven results and superiority to other common scar treatment products, Silgel™ has been utilised in surgery aftercare for over a decade: “We recommend Silgel as one of the most effective scar treatment products for our patients. Silgel is clinically proven to speed up the healing process of scars and is effective in both fading the colour of the scar and reducing the size, to result in smoother skin” Adrian Richards, Plastic Surgeon, Aurora Clinics Benefits:

• Treats keloids, hypertrophic scars and associated erythema
• 100% safe
• Clinically proven
• Flattens and softens scars
• Fades colouration of scars
• Relieves itchiness and discomfort
• Relieves redness
• Easy to apply, non-sticky topical formula with fast absorption
• Suitable for sensitive skin, including children’s skin
• Free from preservatives, colours and perfumes
• 100% silicone optimises natural healing process

Silgel is available in a 20ml tube, RRP: £35.99 / €43.50. www.silgel.com

London – 9 June, 2014 – Europe’s largest silicone implant manufacturer has published safety data from a five-year review* in the prestigious journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS), the first ever study on European women. The multi-centre study monitored 1,010 ‘Cristalline Paragel’ devices made by Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com) implanted in 535 women undergoing either augmentation or reconstructive surgery. Each patient was followed up at three months post-surgery, and then annually thereafter. Owned by Dublin-based GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com) which is also the parent company of the UK’s only implant manufacturer Nagor (www.nagor.com), the study’s results demonstrate a reassuringly low rupture rate and an excellent safety profile for Eurosilicone’s products. This month, Eurosilicone joins its sister brand to effectively triple the variety of implant profiles and combinations available to British women, backed by the biggest cache of positive data ever researched and released. Combined, both companies produce 300,000 implants annually exported to more than 80 countries, enjoying over 60 years of history in the market. Whilst the results don’t allow for direct comparison with competitors, the dramatically lower removal rates of implants for breast augmentation experienced by the Eurosilicone patients compared with other brands is reassuringly positive. Where implants are used in reconstructive surgery following a cancer diagnosis, Eurosilicone’s results are impressive – 50% fewer removals than its nearest competitor. Implant removal may be required for a number of reasons and figures relating to this form a large part of the study. Most re-operations were performed for cosmetic reasons rather than reconstructive – but capsular contracture (an abnormal reaction of the body where the breast tissue forms a ‘capsule’ and hardens) was just 1.9%, while the most frequent reason for re-operation was women wanting a boob lift (mastopexy) at 10.7%, followed by scarring (3.6%). Most of the devices that were removed were associated with patients having a breast reconstruction. Out of the 365 women having a boob job – ie primary augmentation – just 4.4% had their implants removed during the five year period. Rupture rates were exceptionally low with just one of the 1,010 implants found to be ruptured on examination. No ruptures were found during the 35 re-operations and the total risk of rupture was assessed at just 0.4% per patient. According to GC Aesthetics’ Chief Executive Ayse Kocak, who is also the industry’s first-ever female CEO;

“This study – the largest ever published in Europe – provides very positive and reassuring news to women and surgeons worldwide, who know they can select their implants with confidence. At GC Aesthetics we are proud to be producing some of the highest quality products available, alongside the most comprehensive warranty on the market. We are thrilled to be introducing Eurosilicone to the UK, which will provide hundreds of new and reliable aesthetic possibilities to British patients.”

Eurosilicone’s product lines include the bestselling ‘Round Collection’ spanning 219 variations, as well as the ‘Matrix’ offering 9 types with 102 variations. GC Aesthetics products also offer the most comprehensive warranty on the market: free and valid for the entirety of the patients’ lifetime, rather than just the product’s lifetime. *Full study available at: http://journals.lww.com/prsgo/Fulltext/2014/04000/Five_year_Safety_Data_for_Eurosilicone_s_Round_and.1.aspx ENDS About GC Aesthetics GC Aesthetics, which stands for Global Consolidated Aesthetics, was founded in 2007 and is the umbrella company for two leading implant manufacturers: Nagor and Eurosilicone. The Dublin-based privately owned company has more than 60 years of combined experience and excellence in implant development, manufacture and innovation and currently manufacture and sell breast implants in 90 countries, offering a wide product range with nearly 600 types of implant. The company manufactures their products at their own facilities based in Scotland, England and France and produce to the highest European standards. GC Aesthetics is committed to the continuous improvement and evolution of the Eurosilicone and Nagor product lines and to educating consumers by providing clear information on implants. GC Aesthetics directs group operations from their corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland. To contact them, please email [email protected] and to visit the GCA website please go to www.gcaesthetics.com About Nagor Nagor (www.nagor.com) is the only British manufacturer of silicone breast implants with facilities situated in Cumbernauld in Scotland and Ashby De La Zouch in central England, employing 125 highly skilled and dedicated people. They have been selling implants since 1979 and offer a lifetime patient guarantee on all breast implants. All Nagor products are designed, developed and manufactured in facilities compliant with the ISO 13485 standards and requirements demanded for class III sterile breast implant medical devices. They are manufactured under a quality management system in accordance with ISO and EN requirements and have CE mark certification. About Eurosilicone Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com) is a leading manufacturer in the global plastic surgery community. They are an innovative developer and manufacturer of a complete range of quality surgical implants and tissue expanders. Their extensive product line provides surgeons with a wide range of breast augmentation, aesthetic and reconstructive options. Eurosilicone products are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities in Apt, France. Their implants are manufactured in full compliance with ISO and EU requirements and are CE certified according to the requirements of the Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC. For all press and media enquiries please contact Kate Chaundy of Cacique Public Relations on +44(0)207 2504750 / [email protected]

New research reveals what men and women really think about cosmetic surgery One of the world’s leading breast implant manufacturers has today released statistics showing a surprising new curve in the nation’s body type preferences. The study, commissioned by GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com) surveyed over 2,000 people in the UK and revealed that, despite new industry figures* showing an impressive rise in demand for cosmetic surgery across the nation, women are choosing the subtle lines of Olympian Jessica Ennis over the more exaggerated shapes of glamour models. Nearly three quarters (72%) of women said if they had a boob job, they would only go up by just one discreet bra cup size. Perhaps more surprisingly, men also overwhelmingly agreed on choice of coveted shape, relegating more buxom silhouettes regularly seen in lads’ mags to least desired. GC Aesthetics, parent company to the UK’s only breast implant manufacturer Nagor (www.nagor.com) and France-based Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com), which together export over 300,000 implants annually to over 90 countries, commissioned the research in an effort to explore current attitudes to cosmetic surgery. The study also revealed that despite being a common theme in the media, seven out of ten (69%) women in Britain still consider cosmetic surgery a taboo subject and feel uncomfortable discussing it with friends and family. With the ethos that women should be empowered to make informed choices about their bodies, the implant manufacturer uses a variety of channels such as blogs and social media for the public to contact them with questions as well as share experiences with each other. Their ‘GCA Body Matters’ live Web chat taking place on 7 March at 1pm will involve phone-ins and queries submitted online for discussion by GC Aesthetics’ own Chief Executive and the industry’s first-ever female CEO Ayse Kocak, renown psychotherapist Norman Wright and top plastic surgeon Jacqueline Lewis. Ayse, who was named as one of the top 100 Most Powerful Women in Mexico and who recently secured financial backing worth $60M for the company, is unsurprised at the findings. She says: “Our own global sales data** supports that the best-selling implant size around the world is only a modest 251-350ccs which equates very broadly to about two or three bra cups. Today’s women – and even men – seem to prefer a streamlined silhouette and understand that breast augmentation is about gaining confidence, not seeking attention. The choice to have cosmetic surgery should never be taken lightly and we believe in giving women the most thorough guidance possible, especially since many still feel this is a taboo subject. Through initiatives such as GCA’s Body Matters and our ‘dream team’ of independent experts, we are hoping to arm patients with the knowledge and support they need to decide what is right for them.” The findings above and many others will be discussed live at the Web chat on 7^th March at 1pm, this can be accessed via the GC Aesthetics homepage www.gcaesthetics.com *http://baaps.org.uk/about-us/press-releases/1833-britain-sucks ** http://nagor.com/physicians/news-and-media/news-article/boob-jobs-of-the-world-unveiled ENDS About GC Aesthetics GC Aesthetics, which stands for Global Consolidated Aesthetics, was founded in 2007 and is the umbrella company for two leading implant manufacturers: Nagor and Eurosilicone.  The Dublin-based privately owned company has more than 60 years of combined experience and excellence in implant development, manufacture and innovation and currently manufacture and sell breast implants in 90 countries, offering a wide product range with nearly 600 types of implant. The company manufactures their products at their own facilities based in Scotland, England and France and produce to the highest European standards. GC Aesthetics is committed to the continuous improvement and evolution of the Eurosilicone and Nagor product lines and to educating consumers by providing clear information on implants. GC Aesthetics directs group operations from their corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland. To contact them, please email [email protected] and to visit the GCA website please go to www.gcaesthetics.com About Nagor Nagor (www.nagor.com) is the only British manufacturer of silicone breast implants with facilities situated in Cumbernauld in Scotland and Ashby De La Zouch in central England, employing 125 highly skilled and dedicated people. They have been selling implants since 1979 and offer a lifetime patient guarantee on all breast implants. All Nagor products are designed, developed and manufactured in facilities compliant with the ISO 13485 standards and requirements demanded for class III sterile breast implant medical devices. They are manufactured under a quality management system in accordance with ISO and EN requirements and have CE mark certification. About Eurosilicone Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com) is a leading manufacturer in the global plastic surgery community. They are an innovative developer and manufacturer of a complete range of quality surgical implants and tissue expanders. Their extensive product line provides surgeons with a wide range of breast augmentation, aesthetic and reconstructive options. Eurosilicone products are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities in Apt, France. Their implants are manufactured in full compliance with ISO and EU requirements and are CE certified according to the requirements of the Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC. For all press and media enquiries please contact Kate Chaundy of Cacique Public Relations on +44(0)207 2504750 / [email protected]

GC Aesthetics raises $60M to Fund Global Growth and New Product Development GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), one of the largest independent aesthetic companies globally, has raised $40M of financing from new investor OrbiMed, alongside nearly $20M from existing investors including Montreux Equity Partners and Oyster Capital.  This financing will fuel further international expansion, new product development and launches. It will continue to support GC Aesthetics’ vision to become the world’s leading independent medical aesthetics company. GC Aesthetics is a global leader in the aesthetic and plastic surgery market with their flagship brands: UK-based Nagor and France-based Eurosilicone.  GC Aesthetics has had manufacturing plants in Europe for over 30 years, and plans further expansion of its operations in Europe to meet the growing demand.  The company, whose products sell in over 90 countries, has been growing their business worldwide with a new executive team at the helm since the beginning of 2013. Ayse Kocak, CEO of GC Aesthetics and the industry’s first-ever female CEO says: “We are delighted to have secured this funding that will allow GC Aesthetics consolidate its position as a market leader in aesthetics, and one which continues to keep women’s interests at the forefront of all our goals. This has been an exciting year for us and we have laid the foundations to launch groundbreaking initiatives. This funding will enable us to maximise further growth,introduce our quality products to new markets and give patients and surgeons more choice than ever before”. Daniel K. Turner III, Managing Director of Montreux Equity Partners and Chairman of GC Aesthetics, added, “Ayse and the GC Aesthetics management team are transforming the aesthetics market with their focus on the health and wellness of women. Our continued financial commitment demonstrates our excitement for GC Aesthetics growth prospects as it becomes a global market leader in aesthetics.” ENDS About GC Aesthetics GC Aesthetics, which stands for Global Consolidated Aesthetics, was founded in 2007 and is the umbrella company for two leading implant manufacturers: Nagor and Eurosilicone.  The Dublin-based privately owned company has more than 60 years of combined experience and excellence in implant development, manufacture and innovation and currently manufactures and sells breast implants in 90 countries, offering a wide product range with nearly 600 types of implant. The company manufactures its products at its own facilities based in Scotland, England and France and produces to the highest European standards. GC Aesthetics is committed to the continuous improvement and evolution of the Eurosilicone and Nagor product lines and to educating consumers by providing clear information on implants. To contact GC Aesthetics, please email [email protected] and to visit the GC Aesthetics website please go to www.gcaesthetics.com About OrbiMed OrbiMed (www.orbimed.com) is a leading investment firm dedicated exclusively to the healthcare sector, with over $9 billion in assets under management. OrbiMed invests globally across the spectrum of healthcare companies, from venture capital start-ups to large multinational companies. OrbiMed’s team of more than 80 employees manages a series of private equity funds, public equity funds, royalty/debt funds and other investment vehicles. OrbiMed maintains its headquarters in New York City, with additional offices in San Francisco, Shanghai, Mumbai and Herzliya. About Montreux Equity Partners Montreux is dedicated to making growth capital investments in category leading companies with products, technologies, and services that are advancing health.  Since 1993, Montreux has invested in more than 50 companies, including MAKO Surgical (acquired by Stryker), SkinMedica (acquired by Allergan), Renal CarePartners (acquired by Ambulatory Services of America), Great Lakes Health Plan (acquired by United Healthcare), and Orexigen (Nasdaq: OREX).  Montreux is based in San Francisco, CA and is currently investing out of its fifth fund.  For more information, visit mepvc.com. About Oyster Capital Oyster was founded in 2000 by Bill McCabe, one of Ireland’s most successful entrepreneurs, and the firm invests in technology, software, waste and energy businesses. Since its inception, it has invested in more than 30 companies and has offices both in Ireland and USA.

Nagor (www.nagor.com), the UK’s only breast implant manufacturer came out on top at this year’s MyFaceMyBody Awards winning the award for “Best Cosmetic Surgery Product or Device”, as chosen by the public. The awards, which are recognised internationally, are attended by global brands and professionals and serve to recognise industry innovation, popularity and success. They were held at London’s Lancaster Hotel on 2^nd November and Nagor beat seven other shortlisted companies for the award, including a post-surgery bra company and EuroSurgical who produce implants. For Nagor, a 34 year-old company which produces over 75,000 implants a year at their facilities in Cumbernauld and Ashby de la Zouch, it follows a tremendous year after announcing growth of over 30% and the introduction of their bestselling products into new markets Spain and Mexico. The British-made implants are already exported to nearly 50 countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Germany, China, Thailand and offer a choice of 270 combinations of profile, projection and variety of gel consistencies produced. Their products offer the best warranty available: free and valid for the entirety of the patients’, rather than just the product’s lifetime. According to Nagor’s UK Sales Manager Douglas Black;

“We are delighted with our company’s win at the MyFaceMyBody Awards. In a market that has been turbulent and under immense scrutiny over recent months, it’s even more important that our products are given the recognition and trust they deserve for their quality, innovation and, critically, their safety. We are very proud of what we produce at our plants in Cumbernauld and Ashby and our recent growth figures illustrate further how and why we are leaders in our industry.”

Nagor is part of GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), a company that aims to become the leading independent medical aesthetics company worldwide by 2015, and who also own French brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com). In the wake of the PIP implant health scandal which saw tens of thousands of patients worldwide fitted with substandard breast implants, this year saw the start of a groundbreaking re-launch as a consumer brand; shedding the clinical and corporate image traditional in the sector and emerging with a new focus under the leadership of the industry’s first-ever female CEO. As part of this new strategy, GCA are implementing critical changes across their brands to enable them to link directly with, and relate to the end user: women. Unlike other breast implant companies which remain corporate and male-led, marketing primarily to plastic surgeons, GC Aesthetics and its brands are turning conventional industry strategy on its head – via consumer-friendly websites and lifestyle polls, blogs, Facebook, Twitter, regular focus groups and unique patient privileges. CEO and ex-Pfizer executive Ayse Kocak, who helped launch brands such as Viagra, wants customers to ask questions and interact directly with the company as well as each other, so they can feel empowered and fully informed regarding life-changing choices they’re making about their bodies. Ayse says:

“It’s wonderful to see recognition for Nagor and its products and fantastic to see them win the award after recent upheavals in the sector. Our task now is to move the brands in a direction that involves the women we are targeting more. In traditional surgical procedures involving a medical device, it is actually rare that the patient will ask questions or indeed be involved in the decisionmaking process as to what product is being used. However at GC Aesthetics we feel that in regards to the highly personal choice of breast surgery, they should be aware and fully informed every step of their journey which is why we’re so thrilled about winning an award voted on by consumers. We are helping women change the way they feel about themselves, therefore it is essential that we relate to them and understand their needs. Our brands have a long tradition of quality and the respect of the surgical community; it’s high time we level the playing field and involve the end user as well in this process: women.”

ENDS About Nagor Nagor (www.nagor.com) is the only British manufacturer of silicone breast implants with facilities situated in Cumbernauld in Scotland and Ashby De La Zouch in central England, employing 125 highly skilled and dedicated people. They have been selling implants since 1979 and offer a lifetime patient guarantee on all breast implants. All Nagor products are designed, developed and manufactured in facilities compliant with the ISO 13485 standards and requirements demanded for class III sterile breast implant medical devices. They are manufactured under a quality management system in accordance with ISO and EN requirements and have CE mark certification. About GC Aesthetics GC Aesthetics, which stands for Global Consolidated Aesthetics, was founded in 2007 and is the umbrella company for two leading implant manufacturers: Nagor and Eurosilicone.  The Dublin-based privately owned company has more than 40 years of experience and excellence in implant development, manufacture and innovation and currently manufacture and sell breast implants in 90 countries, offering a wide product range with nearly 600 types of implant. The company manufactures their products at their own facilities based in Scotland, England and France and produce to the highest European standards. GC Aesthetics is committed to the continuous improvement and evolution of the Eurosilicone and Nagor product lines and to educating consumers by providing clear information on implants. GC Aesthetics directs group operations from their corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland. To contact them, please email [email protected] and to visit the GCA website please go to www.gcaesthetics.com

UK BREAST COMPANY NAGOR SUPPORTS NEW INITIATIVE FOR IMPLANT SAFETY Founding Partner ‘Nagor’ to Back “£1 per Implant” Venture In light of the 2013Report on the Review of Cosmetic Interventions, in which Sir Bruce Keogh lamented the “insufficient research on the effectiveness and risks of many cosmetic procedures”, the UK’s only implant manufacturer Nagor (www.nagor.com) has today announced it is one of the first founding partners of the Breast Safety Implant Campaign, an implementation of the National Institute of Aesthetic Research (www.niar.org.uk), which launched today. NIAR is a joint initiative by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (www.baaps.org.uk) and the Healing Foundation (www.thehealingfoundation.org.uk), which launched the first-of-its-kind model to boost research, addressing the sector’s ‘data vacuum’. Nagor, part of GC Aesthetics and the UK’s only breast implant manufacturing company, are delighted to be involved in this groundbreaking initiative following from being the world’s only implant manufacturer to help PIP victims by offering free replacements for ruptured devices. Breast augmentation continues to be the most popular cosmetic procedure, despite the recent public scandal involving Poly Implant Prosthèse (PIP) implants. NIAR are establishing the Breast Safety Implant Campaign as a priority, with breast implant manufacturers worldwide being invited to contribute the equivalent of £1 per implant sold towards funding a research programme aimed at improving all aspects of breast implant safety, treatment and aftercare. Nic Steventon, General Director for Europe at GC Aesthetics, says;

“We are thrilled to take part in this pioneering initiative, which reinforces our commitment to patient safety, our own synergy with the plastic surgery community and shared scientific ideals.”

Ayse Kocak, CEO of Global Consolidated (GC) Aesthetics – the parent company of Nagor and its sister company Eurosilicone – says:

“We are honoured to be involved in the Breast Implant Safety Campaign initiative. At the forefront of GC Aesthetics’ objectives is a deep and unrivalled commitment towards patient safety and industry control. We are delighted to help boost research and analysis by supporting this groundbreaking idea.”

NIAR’s areas of enquiry may include, ·an improved understanding of the psychosocial factors behind women seeking breast enhancement surgery, ·providing an independent analysis and comment on data which will come from the Breast Implant Register which Government has recommended, ·promoting clinical research into the safety and efficacy of surgical techniques in breast implant surgery, ·analysing existing data on breast surgery to provide evidence based advice for surgeons which may help to define “best practice”, ·scientific research into the causes of capsular contracture following breast implants, and ·longer term scientific research into implant design and technology for the prospects of developing implants with more favorable interface characteristics with the breast. According to consultant plastic surgeon and BAAPS President Rajiv Grover;

“We are delighted to work with GC Aesthetics as a founding partner in order to fund further scientific research and continuing to put patient safety first.”

All research undertaken by the Healing Foundation under the auspices of the NIAR is subject to the charity’s existing, stringent processes of research management.  The Healing Foundation is a registered charity and a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC).

MILLENIUM DOMES Boob Jobs of the World Unveiled One of the world’s leading medical device manufacturers has today unveiled brand new data revealing breast augmentation preferences from across the globes. Not only identifying the bestselling sizes, data from GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com) pinpoints the most common shapes and projections of their hugely popular products from UK-based Nagor (www.nagor.com) and French brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com), which export their products to nearly 90 countries. At a global level, the most common implant sizes by far were in the surprisingly moderate 251cc – 350cc range, with nearly half (47%) of all boob jobs on average plumping for this volume, i.e., roughly just 2-3 cup sizes. But with very few exceptions (such as China, where preferences have remained conservative and constant) sizes have been undeniably getting bigger over time. In 2010, the more generous 351-450ccs range accounted for just over one in five (22%) augmentations but by 2012 it represented well over a quarter (27%). Even more buxom volumes of 451+ccs were barely on the radar three years ago (6%) and are now close to representing one in ten (9%) sales in just three years. Although it varies widely depending on a woman’s frame and chest width, 130ccs could very roughly equate to about one cup size, so: ·  151–250ccs = 1-2 cup sizes ·  251–350ccs = 2-3 cup sizes ·  351-450ccs = 3-4 cup sizes ·  451+ = 4 sizes or more According to GC Aesthetics’ Chief Executive Ayse Kocak, who is also the breast implant industry’s first-ever female CEO; “Demand for our quality implants has continued to increase internationally, and it’s been fascinating to be able to pinpoint unique trends around the world and over time: some countries clearly favour larger, rounder or higher looks than others. We position ourselves as an aesthetics company that is different from the norm because, unlike most medical device manufacturers, above all we aim to relate to the end user: i.e., women. Choosing to have breast surgery is a highly personal decision and we are proud to be part of a fully informed and empowering lifestyle choice – whether our customers are in Argentina, Thailand, France or Egypt.” Size Matters In the UK, two out of five women (40%) choose the globally popular medium-sized ranges between 251-350ccs which equates roughly to about 2-3 cup sizes; just over a quarter (26%) go slightly bigger (351-450ccs) ie circa 3-4 cup sizes and the third commonest choice (preferred by one in five women or 19%) is actually in the modest 151-250ccs range – just 1-2 cup sizes. On the other hand, Switzerland lives up to its neutrality, with demand equally divided between 151-250ccs range and 251-350ccs, whereas nearly half (49%) of all implants sold in Israel are in the 351-450 (3-4 cup sizes) range. Countries such as Ireland, Australia and Denmark also seem more inclined towards generous volumes, with one in ten of their boob jobs plumped by 451-550ccs (4-5 cup sizes). In Venezuela, a country famous for winning beauty pageants, these sizes prove twice as popular and account for one in five surgeries. Across the board, demand for larger sizes is growing. In the UK in 2010, only a third (34%) of implants sold were bigger than 351ccs; now they represent close to half (44%). Boob jobs have gotten bigger in the last three years in most countries including Argentina, Brazil, Ireland, Colombia, Russia, the Netherlands and many others. In France and India they have done so but moderately. Hong Kong however is steadfastly conservative in its preferences, with four out of five (80%) of augmentations in the modest 151-250 range and remaining consistent over the last three years. Similarly, Japanese women also overwhelmingly go for this subtle size, and one in ten (11%) of them actually go even smaller, choosing implants with less than 150ccs. Shape Matters Not just size but taste in shape also varies: although the ‘round’ implant is overwhelmingly preferred with 86% of implants sold being of this type, v. the ‘anatomical’ (also known as teardrop) shape. In certain countries however, the latter still proves extremely popular – in Belgium over a third (34%) of women choose this option; in Germany as many as two out of five do (39%), in Poland demand is roughly equal for both types (44% teardrop, 56% round) and in Russia sales of teardrop implants outstrip round ones with three out of five (58%)  patients springing for the former. Projection Matters Implants don’t just come in a range of sizes and shapes but also levels of ‘projection’, which range from low and medium, to high and extra high. Nearly half (49%) of all implants sold around the world are ‘high’ projection but again preferences vary widely. For example, the bestselling size range in both the UK and Brazil is surprisingly the same (251-350ccs), but more than half of women (51%) in Brazil overwhelmingly prefer an ‘extra high’ projection, while the same proportion in Britain just go for ‘high’. Nearly all (over 95%) Colombian and Vietnamese patients aim ‘extra high’. In contrast, the most popular projection in France, Japan and the Netherlands is ‘medium’; and the bestselling type in Sweden is ‘low’. Highlights:

Revolutionary Consumer-Focused Approach for Medical Device Multinational London – 20th July, 2013 – In an unprecedented move for a medical device company, one of the world’s leading breast implant manufacturers today announces its official and groundbreaking re-launch as a consumer brand; shedding the clinical and corporate image traditional in the sector and emerging with a new focus under the leadership of the industry’s first-ever female CEO. Global Consolidated Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com) is implementing critical changes across their 30+ year-old brands to enable them to link directly with, and relate to the end user: women. In the wake of a health scandal which saw tens of thousands of patients worldwide fitted with substandard breast implants, GC Aesthetics, which owns the UK’s only implant manufacturer, Nagor (www.nagor.com) as well as French brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com), is drawing on its strengths, expertise and longstanding tradition of quality to lead the way in restoring public confidence in the cosmetic surgery sector. Through a brand image overhaul alongside a combination of new initiatives, interactive social media platforms and even an open-door policy for visits to their manufacturing facilities, the company is reaching out in a youthful, female-friendly approach so patients can feel informed, reassured and empowered about their choice of breast surgery. Unlike other breast implant companies which remain corporate and male-led, marketing primarily to plastic surgeons, GC Aesthetics and its brands are turning conventional industry strategy on its head – via consumer-friendly websites and lifestyle polls, blogs, Facebook, Twitter, regular focus groups and unique patient privileges. CEO and ex-Pfizer executive Ayse Kocak, who helped launch brands such as Viagra, wants customers to ask questions and interact directly with the company as well as each other, so they can feel empowered and fully informed regarding life-changing choices they’re making about their bodies. Ayse says:

“In traditional surgical procedures involving a medical device, it is actually rare that the patient will ask questions or indeed be involved in the decisionmaking process as to what product is being used. However at GC Aesthetics we feel that in regards to the highly personal choice of breast surgery, they should be aware and fully informed every step of their journey. We are helping women change the way they feel about themselves, therefore it is essential that we relate to them and understand their needs. Our brands have a long tradition of quality and the respect of the surgical community; it’s high time we level the playing field and involve the end user as well in this process: women.”

GC Aesthetics has recently achieved exponential growth; they plan to double production and increase numbers of their 300+ staff (66% of which are female) with an aim to become the leading independent medical aesthetics company by 2015. Their brands combined produce nearly 300,000 implants each year in a wide range with nearly 600 unique types varying in shape, texture and projection exported to nearly 90 countries. To help lead the company through its change in direction and reinforce its commitment through an increase in marketing spend, alongside CEO Ayse Kocak a new team of higher calibre than ever before has also been appointed. This includes London-based Global Brand Director Faye Mingo, who previously worked at UK pregnancy and baby company Bounty and healthcare company Kimberly Clark; European General Director Nic Steventon, formerly of rival implant business Mentor; new Chief Financial Officer Gary McGrath and VP of EU and Emerging Markets Ayhan Aslan. They join company veterans such as COO Barry Hatt and country Commercial Managers Eddie de Oliveira and Bernardo Garduño. Ayse Kocak concludes;

“We are delighted to further establish our company as one that listens and responds to women. We want to encourage them to undertake thorough research prior to surgery, and are excited to offer multiple new channels so they can share their experiences with us and each other.”

Trusted UK Manufacturer Introduces Bestselling Range Barcelona, Spain  – 15 July 2013 ­­– The recent health scandal which saw 20,000 Spanish patients receive defective breast implants  has resulted in a rise in demand for trusted, quality medical devices and today, leading manufacturer GC Aesthetics announces the introduction of their British-made implants to Spain. Among the products to be launched by their Nagor brand is Impleo, currently the company’s bestselling range in the UK. Between 20,000 and 30,000 breast augmentations take place each year in Spain, where there are 850 registered plastic surgeons. Nagor provides a choice of 270 potential projection and profile combinations consisting of a wide variety of gels and levels of cohesion, offering the patient a wide range of aesthetic possibilities. The extensive product portfolio includes RGI, a round, smooth implant for easy insertion and soft feel; GFX, a round textured implant used both in reconstructions and aesthetic augmentations; CoGel, an anatomical (teardrop-shaped) implant and surgeons’ favourite: the bestselling Impleo range available in smooth and textured surfaces. All Nagor Implants are manufactured with high performance silicone elastomer layers to enhance shell integrity and have a unique 360 degree barrier layer to minimise gel diffusion (bleeding through the implant shell). Unlike other manufacturers, virtually every Nagor implant has a corresponding inflatable sizer, a device which enables the surgeon to ensure the dimensions are correct before the implant is inserted, making sure the patient is given the best possible look and shape. Ignasi Salla, GC Aesthetics’ General Director for Spain, says:

“We are thrilled to be able to offer our range of products directly to the Spanish market for the first time. With over 30 years’ history, Nagor is a trusted brand among surgeons and patients and it is no surprise that demand for our high quality implants continues to soar both in the UK and internationally.”

Earlier this year, GC Aesthetics welcomed Ms Ayse Kocak as their Chief Executive Officer, remarkably the industry’s first-ever female CEO. She says:

“It is essential that patients are given a wide range of choice when contemplating breast procedures. Our company is proud to listen and respond to women’s needs; we’re not just making and selling medical devices, we are helping them change the way they feel about themselves. I’m delighted to introduce Nagor as a new and exciting option to the women of Spain.”

Revolutionary Consumer-Focused Approach for Medical Device Multinational London – 20th July, 2013 – In an unprecedented move for a medical device company, one of the world’s leading breast implant manufacturers today announces its official and groundbreaking re-launch as a consumer brand; shedding the clinical and corporate image traditional in the sector and emerging with a new focus under the leadership of the industry’s first-ever female CEO. Global Consolidated Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com) is implementing critical changes across their 30+ year-old brands to enable them to link directly with, and relate to the end user: women. In the wake of a health scandal which saw tens of thousands of patients worldwide fitted with substandard breast implants, GC Aesthetics, which owns the UK’s only implant manufacturer, Nagor (www.nagor.com) as well as French brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com), is drawing on its strengths, expertise and longstanding tradition of quality to lead the way in restoring public confidence in the cosmetic surgery sector. Through a brand image overhaul alongside a combination of new initiatives, interactive social media platforms and even an open-door policy for visits to their manufacturing facilities, the company is reaching out in a youthful, female-friendly approach so patients can feel informed, reassured and empowered about their choice of breast surgery. Unlike other breast implant companies which remain corporate and male-led, marketing primarily to plastic surgeons, GC Aesthetics and its brands are turning conventional industry strategy on its head – via consumer-friendly websites and lifestyle polls, blogs, Facebook, Twitter, regular focus groups and unique patient privileges. CEO and ex-Pfizer executive Ayse Kocak, who helped launch brands such as Viagra, wants customers to ask questions and interact directly with the company as well as each other, so they can feel empowered and fully informed regarding life-changing choices they’re making about their bodies. Ayse says:

“In traditional surgical procedures involving a medical device, it is actually rare that the patient will ask questions or indeed be involved in the decisionmaking process as to what product is being used. However at GC Aesthetics we feel that in regards to the highly personal choice of breast surgery, they should be aware and fully informed every step of their journey. We are helping women change the way they feel about themselves, therefore it is essential that we relate to them and understand their needs. Our brands have a long tradition of quality and the respect of the surgical community; it’s high time we level the playing field and involve the end user as well in this process: women.”

GC Aesthetics has recently achieved exponential growth; they plan to double production and increase numbers of their 300+ staff (66% of which are female) with an aim to become the leading independent medical aesthetics company by 2015. Their brands combined produce nearly 300,000 implants each year in a wide range with nearly 600 unique types varying in shape, texture and projection exported to nearly 90 countries. To help lead the company through its change in direction and reinforce its commitment through an increase in marketing spend, alongside CEO Ayse Kocak a new team of higher calibre than ever before has also been appointed. This includes London-based Global Brand Director Faye Mingo, who previously worked at UK pregnancy and baby company Bounty and healthcare company Kimberly Clark; European General Director Nic Steventon, formerly of rival implant business Mentor; new Chief Financial Officer Gary McGrath and VP of EU and Emerging Markets Ayhan Aslan. They join company veterans such as COO Barry Hatt and country Commercial Managers Eddie de Oliveira and Bernardo Garduño. Ayse Kocak concludes;

“We are delighted to further establish our company as one that listens and responds to women. We want to encourage them to undertake thorough research prior to surgery, and are excited to offer multiple new channels so they can share their experiences with us and each other.”

Industry’s First-Ever Female CEO Aims to Get under Women’s Skin London, UK – 24 June, 2013 – In the wake of a health scandal which saw over 300,000 women worldwide fitted with defective medical devices and a loss of confidence in the sector, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of breast implants today announces they will be tackling the challenges under the guidance of the industry’s first-ever female Chief Executive Officer.  GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), the parent company of international brands Eurosilicone and UK-based Nagor; whose products are sold in over 90 countries; will be led through a female consumer-focused re-launch by former Pfizer executive and biotech firm Vice President Ms. Ayse Kocak. Ayse, who has been recognised as one of the top 100 Most Powerful Women in Mexico by CNN Expansion magazine, aims to mould GC Aesthetics and its 300+ employees into a company that speaks directly to women and caters to their needs. Her appointment heralds a new era for GC Aesthetics, coinciding with the arrival of a new and like-minded female Global Brand Director, Faye Mingo, based in London. Ayse says;

“At this seminal time in our sector, we have a tremendous opportunity to fundamentally change the playing field of the breast implant industry. All businesses have an obvious need to be aligned with what their consumers want, and in our case it’s specifically about what women want.”

GC Aesthetics aims to become the leading independent medical aesthetics company worldwide by 2015; it owns French brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com) and the UK’s only breast implant manufacturer Nagor (www.nagor.com) which together produce over 275,000 implants each year in a wide product range with nearly 600 unique types varying in shape, texture and projection. Their products have been on the market for over thirty years and offer the best warranty available: free and valid for the entirety of the patients’ lifetime, rather than just the product’s lifetime. Ayse continues;

“We want to make sure that women are fully informed, and therefore empowered, in making their decision. We understand that it’s not just the physical aspect of breast enhancement or reconstruction, but how women feel about their choice to have breast implants placed inside their bodies. One of our key objectives is to provide clear, uniquely tailored materials that speak to the female consumer. “We’re not simply making and selling medical devices; we’re helping women change they way they feel about themselves, so they can make the lifestyle choice that is right for them.”

According to Global Brand Director Faye Mingo, who worked at UK pregnancy and baby company Bounty and global personal and healthcare company Kimberly Clark before joining GC Aesthetics;

“We’re excited to be putting into place extensive plans to further establish our company as one that genuinely listens and responds to women – getting ‘under the skin’ of the issues that they face when considering breast procedures. We want to encourage them to do thorough research and offer a platform to share their experiences with each other. The public has certainly become more aware that choosing the implant is as important as choosing the surgeon.”

GC Aesthetics’ new initiatives aren’t limited to the consumer alone – the company also intends to further promote their open-door policy for surgeons to visit the manufacturing facilities and see first-hand how the products are made.

Global Industry’s First-Ever Female CEO Appointed Apt, France – 24 June, 2013 – In the wake of a health scandal which saw over 300,000 women fitted with defective medical devices, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of breast implants today announces they will be tackling the challenges of any loss of confidence in the sector under the guidance of the industry’s first-ever female Chief Executive Officer.  GC Aesthetics (www.gcaesthetics.com), the parent company of Apt-based Eurosilicone and UK-based Nagor; whose products are sold in over 90 countries; will be led through a consumer-focused re-launch by former Pfizer executive Ms. Ayse Kocak. Ayse aims to mould GC Aesthetics and its 300+ employees into a company that speaks directly to women, caters to their needs and helps to restore their faith in cosmetic surgery after the PIP scandal. She says;

“At this seminal time in our sector, we have an opportunity to fundamentally change the playing field of the breast implant industry. All businesses have an obvious need to be aligned with what their consumers want, and in our case it’s specifically about what women want and, indeed, deserve.”

GC Aesthetics owns French brand Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com) and UK-based Nagor (www.nagor.com) which together produce over 275,000 implants each year. Their products have been on the market for over thirty years and offer the best warranty available: free and valid for the entirety of the patients’ lifetime. Ayse continues;

“We understand that it’s not just the physical aspect of breast enhancement or reconstruction, but how women feel about their choice to have breast implants placed inside their bodies – especially after a betrayal such as PIP. “We’re committed to further establishing our company as one that genuinely listens and responds to women. We want to encourage them to do thorough research and offer a platform to share their experiences with each other. Due to recent events, the public has become more aware than ever that choosing the implant is as important as choosing the surgeon.” “We’re not simply making and selling medical devices; we’re helping women change the way they feel about themselves, so they can confidently make the lifestyle choice that is right for them.”

GC Aesthetics’ also intends to further promote their open-door policy for surgeons to visit the manufacturing facilities and see first-hand how the products are made.

First-Ever Female CEO Launches Range Mexico City, Mexico – 15 July 2013 ­– A Mexico-based executive has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of one of the world’s leading manufacturer of breast implants, remarkably also the entire industry’s only female CEO. Under her leadership, GC Aesthetics today announces the introduction of Nagor; their British-made, bestselling range of devices to the Mexican market. Mexico is the world’s second largest market for cosmetic surgery, with 1,300 registered plastic surgeons and 120,000 breast implants sold annually. Nagor (www.nagor.com) provides a choice of 270 potential projection and profile combinations, offering the patient a wide range of aesthetic possibilities. CEO Ayse Kocak; recognised as one of the top 100 Most Powerful Women in Mexico by CNN Expansión magazine; says;

“It’s essential that patients are given a wide range of choice when contemplating breast procedures. Our company is proud to listen and respond to women’s needs; we’re not just making and selling medical devices, we are helping them change the way they feel about themselves. I’m delighted to introduce Nagor as a new, quality option to the women of Mexico.”

The extensive product portfolio used both in aesthetic and reconstruction surgery includes the round, smooth RGI; the textured GFX; the anatomical (teardrop-shaped) CoGel and surgeons’ favourite: the bestselling Impleo range available in smooth and textured surfaces. All Nagor implants are manufactured with high performance silicone elastomer layers to enhance shell integrity and have a unique 360 degree barrier layer to minimise gel diffusion (bleeding through the implant shell). Nagor also offer ‘inflatable’ sizers: an adjustable device which enables the surgeon to ensure the dimensions are correct before the implant is inserted. GC Aesthetics is the parent company of Nagor and its sister manufacturer Eurosilicone (www.eurosilicone.com); combined they produce over 275,000 implants a year sold in 90 countries. Their high quality implants have been available for over thirty years and offer the best warranty available: live for the patient’s rather than the products’ lifetime. Bernardo Garduño, GC Aesthetics’ Commercial Manager for Hispanic Latin America, says:

“Al abrir la oficina regional en México atenderemos de forma más cercana a nuestros clientes y aceleraremos el crecimiento en Hispano América. El mercado mexicano es muy relevante para GCA, con esta subsidiaria, que se suma a Brasil, Francia y España, nos consolidamos como uno de los principales proveedores de implantes estéticos y para reconstrucción.”