What are the causes of the implant flipping?

It can happen with trauma like what you have described. It is quite rare, however. If the breast pocket is made too large, it can also happen in the early post-op period.Best,

With a well sized pocket, it would be difficult for implants to flip. I would not worry too much. Best of luck.

Hi Lauren, yes, you're right, implant position change, in different directions including flipping over can be caused by mainly traumatic events. An automobile accident with seatbelt pressure is a common cause, but so is pressure from a hit, a fall, or aggressive intimate activity. Best to go back to your plastic surgeon to help sort it out. Good luck.

I have seen this only once in over 30 years of practice, and that patient was not aware of it - found out when changing implant size. For an implant to flip over its edge, so the back is in front, the capsule must be quite large. It is possible for the capsule to enlarge from pressure, or from trauma such as a car accident. A surgeon may be able to manipulate the implant back into the correct position without opening the scar.