Breast implants are a popular choice for individuals seeking to enhance breast size and shape. A common concern is the possibility of them shifting or moving from their intended position. While implants are designed to remain stable, movement can occur due to various factors. Understanding these potential shifts is important for anyone with breast implants.
Understanding Implant Movement
Implant movement refers to any deviation of a breast implant from its initial, desired placement within the breast pocket. This can manifest in several forms of displacement. One common type is rotation, particularly with anatomical or “teardrop” shaped implants, where the implant turns, altering the breast’s contour. Displacement can also involve the implant moving upward, downward, or sideways from its original position, leading to asymmetry.
“Bottoming out” occurs when the implant sags excessively below the inframammary fold, causing the nipple to appear to point upward. Lateral displacement describes the implant moving outward towards the armpit, creating an abnormal distance between the breasts. Conversely, symmastia, sometimes called “uniboob,” happens when implants shift too close to the midline, reducing or eliminating the natural cleavage.
Why Implants Move
Several factors can contribute to breast implant movement. Surgical factors play a role, such as the creation of an implant pocket that is too large, improper dissection, or insufficient support during the initial procedure. If the pocket is too expansive, the implant has more room to shift.
Capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant and tightens, can distort the implant’s shape and cause it to shift. Physical trauma or direct impact to the chest can also dislodge implants. Significant fluctuations in body weight can affect the breast tissue and implant position over time. For implants placed under the muscle (submuscular placement), strong contractions of the pectoral muscle can sometimes cause minor displacement. Natural tissue changes due to aging, gravity, or pregnancy can also lead to shifts in breast tissue that affect implant stability.
Recognizing and Addressing Movement
Identifying breast implant movement often involves noticing changes in the appearance or feel of the breasts. Common signs include visible asymmetry, where one breast appears higher, lower, or otherwise imbalanced compared to the other. A noticeable change in breast shape or contour, or an unusual movement of the breast during activities, can also indicate displacement.
Some individuals may experience discomfort or pain associated with the shift. Other signs might include the nipple changing position, or visible rippling or wrinkling on the breast surface.
If any signs of implant movement are observed, consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon is recommended. A surgeon can assess the situation and determine the underlying cause. While minor shifts might not always require intervention, significant displacement often necessitates corrective measures. These typically involve revision surgery, which can include repositioning the implant, adjusting the implant pocket, performing a capsulectomy to release tightened scar tissue, or exchanging the implant.
Factors Influencing Implant Stability
The long-term stability of breast implants is influenced by initial surgical choices and post-operative care. Implant placement is a significant consideration, with subglandular (over the muscle) and submuscular (under the muscle) options available. Submuscular placement generally offers more coverage for the implant, potentially reducing the risk of displacement or sagging over time, and can be more stable.
The characteristics of the implant itself also contribute to stability. Highly cohesive silicone gel implants, often referred to as “gummy bear” implants, are designed to maintain their shape and are less prone to rotation or displacement. The surface of the implant also plays a role; textured implants are designed to integrate with surrounding tissue, which can help keep them in a stable position and reduce rotation, particularly for anatomical shapes. Smooth implants, while feeling softer, may have a higher chance of movement.
The precision of the surgical technique, including the creation of an appropriately sized and shaped pocket for the implant, is important for ensuring a snug fit and minimizing future movement. Following post-operative care instructions, such as wearing compression garments and adhering to activity restrictions during the initial healing phase, is also crucial for long-term stability.