Feeling an implant move can be very unsettling. Understanding the potential reasons behind this sensation is a helpful first step. This article explores common perceptions of movement and their possible underlying causes.
Understanding the Sensation of Movement
The perception of an implant “moving” does not always mean it has physically shifted. Individuals describe sensations like pressure, internal shifting, or subtle pulling, ranging from mild awareness to persistent sensations. It is important to differentiate between a subjective feeling and true objective, observable movement. These internal sensations often result from the body’s adjustment and healing around the device.
Possible Reasons for the Sensation
The sensation of movement can stem from several physiological processes. During healing, the body undergoes tissue adjustment. Swelling, settling of surrounding tissues, or nerve regeneration can create sensations of pressure or fullness interpreted as movement. These internal shifts are part of the normal recovery as the body integrates the implant.
Fluid accumulation, known as a seroma, can also contribute to this feeling. A seroma is a collection of fluid around the implant. This fluid can cause soft, fluctuating swelling, making the implant feel less stable or as if it is shifting. Larger seromas can cause discomfort and a palpable sensation of movement.
Another possible cause is capsular contracture, where a fibrous capsule forms around the implant. This capsule can tighten over time, compressing the implant. This tightening can lead to a sensation of firmness or displacement, making the implant feel squeezed or moved.
Inflammation or infection near the implant can also cause perceived movement. These conditions lead to localized swelling, warmth, redness, and pain, altering the implant’s feel within the tissue. The increased pressure and discomfort might be interpreted as the implant shifting or being unstable.
Actual implant migration or displacement can occur. This means the implant has genuinely moved from its surgically created pocket. Factors like insufficient pocket size, inadequate fixation, or trauma can lead to physical shifting from its intended anatomical location. This physical movement can be a more pronounced and observable change.
Surrounding muscle spasms or natural changes in body tissue can contribute to these sensations. Muscles adjacent to the implant may contract involuntarily, creating a pulling or shifting sensation. Natural body changes, such as weight fluctuations or aging, can alter tissue support, potentially leading to a feeling of the implant settling or moving.
Steps to Take If You Feel Movement
If you experience implant movement, consult with the surgeon or doctor who performed the procedure. If unavailable, seek advice from a general physician.
When communicating with a medical professional, provide detailed information. Explain when the feeling started, describe its nature (e.g., pressure, shifting, pulling), and note any accompanying symptoms like pain, redness, swelling, or fever.
Do not attempt to self-diagnose or manipulate the implant. A qualified medical professional can accurately assess the situation and determine the underlying cause. They will conduct a thorough physical examination.
The medical professional may order diagnostic imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI. These visualize the implant and surrounding tissues, helping confirm displacement or other conditions like fluid accumulation or capsular changes. Based on their findings, they will recommend the appropriate course of action or treatment.