What could this linear indentation be that's more noticeable when I raise my arms or flex? (Photo)

Question

I had Mastopexy with small saline implants (210) 14 months ago. Last week I noticed a small ripple on my right breast, and it’s has become more defined in the past week. It’s most noticeable when my arm is raise or if I’m “flexing” my chest. I have an appointment next week, but am wondering what it could be?!?

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

A new linear indentation 14 months after a lift with saline implants can come from several things, including implant rippling, a fold or edge of the implant becoming more visible, scar-tissue tethering, thinning of the overlying tissue, or a change in the implant pocket/capsule. In the visible photo, there appears to be a localized linear crease or indentation along the lower breast, but the exact cause cannot be confirmed from the image alone.

Because it has become more defined over a week and changes with arm movement or chest flexing, keeping your appointment next week is appropriate. Your surgeon can examine it while you raise your arm and flex, compare both sides, and decide whether observation, imaging, or revision discussion is needed. If you develop pain, redness, swelling, drainage, fever, or a sudden change in breast size or shape, contact your surgeon sooner.

Fernando Ovalle Jr., MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. The best answer would be to see your plastic surgeon back for follow up as they know exactly what technique, etc was used and would be able to perform a full physical exam. With the information provided and limited photo view, I would venture to say you are noticing the lateral border of the pec muscle "animating" and causing for visible deformity in certain views/positions/with activation of that muscle. This does not represent something bad but usually can only be corrected with a site change to above the muscle. Some surgeons may use fat grafting to help camoflauge irregularities such as this around the borders of an implant.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Brownsgirl44,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have a small band of scar tissue that is pulling on your tissue. You could try massaging this area.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

An in person exam should provide more information, but the linear indentation you are noticing could be muscle related.  When the muscle is flexing in a certain position it may put pressure around the implant that results in the appearance that concerns you.

Douglas J. Raskin, MD (retired) · Answer

Greetings,

The new small ripple on your  breast, when your arm is raised or when you are “flexing” your pectoralis muscle is likely from your sub-muscular implant capsule (and muscle) teathering your overlying tissues. This is a best speculation without an exam and a consultation.

I strongly recommend a revisit to your surgeon for his(her) diagnosis, re-examination, and a discussion of treatment options.

Best Regards,

What could this linear indentation be that's more noticeable when I raise my arms or flex? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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