How to fix animation deformity? I am afraid that i will have rippling again. (Photos)

Question

I would like to know if there is a solution for the animation deformity i have on my right breast. After my mastectomy, there was rippling underneath the breast and the implant was visible. I had latissimus dorsi reconstruction done on both sides but now I have the animation (it wasn't as pronounced before). I did get an opinion from a plastic surgeon who suggested placing the implant above the muscle once more. However, i am afraid that i will have rippling again.

Michael Suzman, MD · Answer

Breast reconstruction with implants results in terrific overall results for most patients.  However there is no breast tissue between the skin and muscle so there is sometimes visible changes when the patient moves the pectoralis muscles of the chestEven patients without breast implants, including men, can change the shape of the chest and breast during muscle contraction--so this is not entirely abnormalIf it is very bothersome or disfiguring, there are some good treatment options, though they do require surgeryChanging the position of the implants to above the muscle definitely can help, though covering the implant with a collagen matrix such as AlloDerm, coupled with some fat grafting to the skin flaps, can result in an outstanding outcomeWhile this type of surgery should help, there is always a risk of poor healing, need for additional procedures or rare need to remove an implant and correct in the future based on how healing progressesDiscussed this with an American Society of plastic surgeons member surgeon was very experienced and prepectoral breast reconstruction.Best wishes for a great outcome-- Dr. Suzman

Steven Mapula, MD · Answer

I agree with the opinion you obtained. You should have a pocket exchange and place the implant above the muscle. With regard to rippling, autologous fat grafting would be able to mitigate this to improve the result.

Maria M. LoTempio, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Animation is a tough problem to solve. To camouflage the rippling and decrease the animation, I would suggest localized fat grating to this area. This provides an additional area of coverage without changing the implant etc.  Ask your surgeon about his or her experience with fat grafting. Best of luck!

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

when using implants as your tissue is thin and the muscle coverage will create animation.  To truly eliminate the animation, you would have to go above the muscle but then this will absolutely increase your risks for rippling, even with the gummy bear implants.  The sure way to eliminate the animation would be for your muscles to be repaired and use your tummy (assuming it can be used still) or some other free tissue transfer method to reconstruct your breasts.  If your surgeon did not cover this in the risks of your procedure, make sure your surgeon is made aware that it should have been covered as it could have impacted your decision on how you would have had your reconstruction done as we all learn from our oversights as we age and gain experience.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

What you have is skin contour irregularities that are made to look worse when you animate; what would be best for you is to consider VASER assisted fat grafting as an alternative to an implant. Seems like you are not thrilled about getting an implant and above recommendation is a great alternative and completely natural.

How to fix animation deformity? I am afraid that i will have rippling again. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Animation and rippling in breast reconstruction is the norm

Answer: Animation and rippling in breast reconstruction is the norm

Answer: Rippling? after breast reconstruction

Answer: Rippling? after breast reconstruction

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

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How to fix animation deformity? I am afraid that i will have rippling again. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Animation and rippling in breast reconstruction is the norm

Answer: Animation and rippling in breast reconstruction is the norm

Answer: Rippling? after breast reconstruction

Answer: Rippling? after breast reconstruction

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

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