Vertical indentations 3 years post op. Should I be worried about the integrity of this implant? (Photo)

Question

I had a lift and under muscle silicone implants in 2020. From the beginning there have been adhesion/dent on the outside bottom where it seems they have a deep “tug” on them so I plan to get them redone I hope later this year. Recently they’ve developed vertical indentations. Is this normal? Should I be worried about the integrity of the implant? One is more pronounced than the other but has a small dimple that’s new also.

Bora Ok, MD · Answer

Hi from Istanbul. This issue can often arise from scar tissue adhering to the implant in lift surgeries. However, in such a case, I believe it's necessary to have a breast MRI following a physical examination. If an MRI isn't possible, at the very least, an ultrasound should be performed to assess the situation. Hope this helps, best of luck to you.

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Indentations are not common but can occur following a breast augmentation and a breast lift. Scar tissue contracture can make these depressions worse. It would be rare, at 3 years, that your implants are ruptured.

Carlos Marciales, MD · Answer

Hello, no that’s not normal, I recommend to do your surgery revision as soon as you can, the implant's could be broken, or maybe could be capsule contracture, you need to solve this soon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear GW1976,
I understand your concern. There is a chance that this is caused by scar tissue under the incision. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is very likely that this deformity is the result of soft tissue atrophy and deep scar.. Very likely that it has nothing to do with implant integrity (rupture). If you plan a second breast lift this can be corrected in that procedure. However, the release of deep scar and the fat transfer would correct the current deformity without B lift and can be done with local anesthesia. Hope this helps.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. The appearance of this dent is more likely due to underlying scar tissue adhesions than something bad. However, any new changes in the breast should be considered something "bad" until proven otherwise. I would suggest starting with a mammogram of the breast to make sure there are no concerns for cancer or other lesions and if that is negative, you might want to then consider an MRI to evaluate the implant as that is the best test to evaluate the integrity of a silicone implant. 
Good luck!
Dallas Buchanan, MD
VIVIFY plastic surgery
Tampa, FL

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The dimple is from your own tissue and probably not the implants. If you have textured, switch to the smooth.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The contour shown in the submitted photos is not typical and should be assessed by your surgeon.  A revision is likely necessary for improvement.  Your surgeon may recommend additional tests to check on the integrity of the implants.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Your outcome is fairly atypical.
I suggest you follow up with your provider and discuss your concerns with him or her.
If you seek a second opinion, then I suggest bringing with you a complete set of proper before and after pictures and a copy of your operative report.
Perhaps your surgeon used some special technique. Your surgeon is the best provider to get insight from since they did the procedure.
I don’t think this is a related to your implant being intact or not.
Most likely your implants are fine and the contour is related to how the procedure was performed and possibly scar tissue contraction.
It would be important for any new provider to have as much insight as possible so getting a copy of your medical records would be a good idea if you’re planning on seeking advice from another provider.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Vertical indentations 3 years post op. Should I be worried about the integrity of this implant? (Photo)

Answers (9)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (9)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

BA? C cup, went for breast lift consult & doc recommended a small implant instead (250cc). 5"0 100lbs

Is the size (300cc round demi) right for my tubular breasts?

Are my only options a lift with implants or implants over the muscle? (Photo)

Am I bottoming out? 8 months post-op, 485cc

Planning for breast augmentation - How safe is Tiva anesthetic?

Can Galaflex be placed over the muscle?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS