Could High Altitude Be Causing Changes in Breast Implants Like Popping Sounds?

Question

I have had silicone breast implants for 6 years. I have lived at sea level and at an altitude of 9000 feet and have not had any issues. I have experienced crepitus, popping sensations, and gurgling sounds at the suture lines under my breasts for 2 days when lifting my arms or moving my breasts. I drove from sea level to altitude but this is nothing new for me in the past 6 years.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	I do not think that the &ldquo;sound effects&rdquo; that you are experiencing are related to the breast implants or silicone material itself.  It is more likely that the noises are created by  movement/cracking of the breast implant capsule. Crepitus, at this stage, would be a very unusual ( and potentially concerning) finding;  this is usually seen immediately postoperatively caused by air tracking in the subcutaneous tissues. There is no breast implant related reason why you should have this phenomenon occurring at this time.  If there is air escaping your respiratory system and being trapped in the subcutaneous tissues,  causing the crepitus, you should be evaluated by a physician ASAP.  Chest x-ray may also be indicated.

	I hope this helps.

Paul Fortes, MD · Answer

When a patient experiences sounds from the breasts, often it is
early in the recovery period from breast augmentation surgery.  This is normal and is a reflection of some of
the irrigation fluid that has remained in the breast pocket.  Over a short time this irrigation fluid
becomes absorbed, and the sounds go away. 
Your situation is different in that the timing is 6 years post-op.   Fluid in the breast pocket is still likely
the reason for these sounds. However, newly accumulated fluid in a breast
pocket over a year after surgery is called a delayed seroma and should be
investigated.  A breast ultrasound can
confirm the diagnosis of seroma.  Delayed
seromas are associated in the majority of cases with having textured gel
implants.  Delayed seromas can also be
associated with a rare implant-associated cancer called anaplastic large cell
lymphoma.  I would suggest following-up
with your original plastic surgeon so that he/she can evaluate you for these
new symptoms.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Crepitus is often felt /heard initially after surgery when you go from low altitude to high altitude.  It should not occur at 6 years after surgery. This could be something else, and without an exam it is hard to say.

Could High Altitude Be Causing Changes in Breast Implants Like Popping Sounds?

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Could High Altitude Be Causing Changes in Breast Implants Like Popping Sounds?

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