I can feel teardrop implant move. Why is this?

Question

I got 440cc teardrop implants in August. It has now been 3 months. I can feel one of the implants moving, over bumps in the car or when I bend down, sometimes when I walk etc. I had my 3 month post op checkup yesterday and my surgeon said it was normal and not to worry, unless the shape changes and in that case I should send him a photo. Is it really not anything to worry about? just feels weird with one moving and the other not, I'm concerned it will change shape. Your thoughts?

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

Your breast implant is not attached in one place. It is placed in a pocket in which it will move as you move. There is no way to affix an implant to a spot on your chest wall. Textured implants tend to move less and the dimensions of the pocket can affect movement but the fact that the implant moves is irrelevant unless the appearance changes, as your surgeon told you.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Your implant isn't permanently attached to anything so there should be some movement when you move. It's part of what makes them look natural. However, keep an eye on it as too much movement can increase the chances that your implant may rotate. For now, though, nothing to worry about. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

The bottom line:I agree that this should only be a thought/worry/concern IF the shape changes meaning the implant has shifted. Until that point, it's all worrying for nothing and time better spent other ways. Shaped implants have a rough surface so that your body will heal and adhere to them, keeping them locked in that position like a Velcro shell. Sometimes, the implant can pull free from this adherence and move more freely, potentially allowing to change positions or flip. This is possible in your situation, but it also could just be a difference in the way that one side feels or moves in contrast to the other. There's no great way to know for sure, and in the end, it's not worth worrying about because the implant may be "locked" or even "unlocked" and unlikely to change positions. All this is stress which may be for nothing. Try to put it out of your head, and if one day there is actually a change, simply visit your surgeon and get examined. Good luck!Dr. Subbio

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

As your surgeon mentioned, it is normal for the breastfeeding implants to move a little bit.  This helps keep them soft.  Aside from being slightly annoying, I would only be concerned if the teardrop breast implants moved to the point where you could see a difference in shape.  Good luck!

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Your implants are simply placed inside a "pocket" they are not fixed to your chest wall.  This allows them to look and feel natural and move when you do.    The movement of your implant is not usually concerning but it may increase the possibility of your implant rotating in the pocket which would cause your breast to change shape.  Keep on eye on things and if you have any concerns discuss them with your plastic surgeon.

I can feel teardrop implant move. Why is this?

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Answer: Teardrop implant

Answer: Teardrop implant

Answer: Implant moving

Answer: Implant moving

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I can feel teardrop implant move. Why is this?

Answers (6)

Answer: Teardrop implant

Answer: Teardrop implant

Answer: Implant moving

Answer: Implant moving

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.