My implant has moved and I can feel it. Should I be concerned?

Question

I had a subglandular procedure done 6/2021. I had a relatively easy recovery with no problems or concerns. My breasts dropped and fluffed quickly, and I waited a good 8 weeks until getting back to real workouts. the last few days I noticed I can fee my left implant right below my collar bone in my chest. My breast shape hasn’t changed but I’m concerned about the movement. I’ve moved since my surgery / no longer near my surgeon. Should I call him, look for someone else, or not be concerNed?

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Always best to check with your surgeon. If they can't be reached check with a local surgeon. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would recommend seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in person to evaluate you and discuss your options.  Best of luck to you.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi nkohnfelder25,
For submuscular implants, there is an easy-to-open plane deep to the muscle, and it would be possible (but not expected) for the implant to move upwards with pressure. For subglandular implants, where the breast tissue above the implant pocket is not dissected, it would be unlikely for the space toward the collarbone to open up on its own.
Many women who have a vertical raise of the implant have capsular contracture--an abnormal amount of scar that forms around the implant, causing a vertical displacement and a sphere configuration. This would also be unexpected and abnormal.
An implant at the collarbone level is not normal, and I'd suggest being looked at.
I would suggest starting by calling your surgeon. Most likely, he/she would schedule a virtual visit, or ask you to see a plastic surgeon close to your new location for a physical check. 
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci MD MSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

More information is needed to determine what may be occurring.  If you are unable to visit with your surgeon you can contact another board certified plastic surgeon near you for an evaluation.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear nkohnfelder25,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

My implant has moved and I can feel it. Should I be concerned?

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My implant has moved and I can feel it. Should I be concerned?

Answers (10)

Answer: Implant has moved

Answer: Implant has moved

Answer: Implant moved

Answer: Implant moved

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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