Flipped over Implant after Breast Reconstruction

A flipped implant does occur and it is difficult to say why it happens. Occasionally it will flip back on its own. The surgery to correct it is relatively  simple and should not be a concern for you.

In breast reconstruction- the implant pockets are sometimes a bit larger than than implant volumes- so implants can flip spontaneously, changing the shape and projection of the reconstructed breast. This issue may resolve spontaneously. if it does not, a simple operation can fix the problem.

An implant can flip inthe pocket and sometimes it can flip back over through manipulation or if necessary, through having another operation.

Implant "flipping" is not uncommon.  Sometimes, manual manipulation may "re-flip" it; if not, then an operation may be necessary.

Smooth Breast implants in a large pocket CAN flip over if they are massaged vigorously. The flip-over can be on the side or upside down and they are not easy to correct without surgery.

At the time of surgery, placing the implant right side up may not be sufficient to prevent future re-flipping unless an overly large implant pocket is made smaller.

Dr. Peter Aldea

While implant flipping is not relatively common, it is something that may occur. Sometimes the implant will “re-flip” without medical intervention, or through external manipulation, but if this does not happen, surgery may be necessary. The surgery is simple and recovery from it will usually not be as taxing as the initial insertion, but as with all surgeries, there are risks that you should be aware of.