How can I tell if one of my Breast Implants has come loose from the chest wall? I've had my implants for 17 years.

Question

About 12 days ago I woke up thinking that I had slept wrong because my collar bone, chest, and neck were very sore. I realized this morning while laying on my back that my left breast was off to the side and upon getting up it was hanging lower on my chest. It is pulling on my chest and neck muscles causing discomfort and lifting makes it worse. There is a depression above the implant. Wearing a bra that holds it up where it should be helps somewhat. I have had my saline implants for 17 years.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like the capsule has torn and the way to fix this is to have the implants replaced and the pocket sewn up.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,You may have an implant rupture or displacement. The best way to have this assessed would be to meet with your Plastic Surgeon in person.All the best

Sharline Z. Aboutanos, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Over time, our skin stretches and the weight of the implant can cause discomfort on one's neck, shoulders and back. It is best to make an appointment with your board certified plastic surgeon for complete evaluation. Wearing a bra can provide support and comfort until your evaluation.

Paul C. Zwiebel, MD (retired) · Answer

You may have a displacement of the implant that can be repaired surgically to reshape the implant pocket.  There are different techniques to accomplish this, best determined with examination and evaluation by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon experienced in breast implant replacement surgery.

How can I tell if one of my Breast Implants has come loose from the chest wall? I've had my implants for 17 years.

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How can I tell if one of my Breast Implants has come loose from the chest wall? I've had my implants for 17 years.

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