How bad does a displaced/shifted implant look? Does it need urgent correction? Is it very noticeable?

Question

I a returning to sport after 8 weeks. If it somehow gets displaced I won't be able to have it corrected for a few months. In that time will it look awful? If it gets displaced I will be unable to have it fixed right away. If it shifts during my sport is urgent care requires immediately? Can it wait a month or two? Would it be very noticeable?

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Some shifting is minor and doesn’t require immediate correction. In other cases, it can be quite obvious and require immediate attention. Therefore, it really is based on your particular situation in the rare event it should happen.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Ryan599187,
I understand your concern. You will probably notice shifted implants because of change in shape. 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If your implant should become displaced it likely won't be very noticeable in a sports bra or other clothing.  There is no emergency to have it corrected should it occur.  When returning to activities be sure that you wear a well fitting sports bra with good support.  Be sure to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your pocket should be healed enough to allow you to return to sports in 8 weeks from surgery. Please wear a good support bra to help you breast implants to sty in the proper location.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It al depends on how displaced an implant becomes.  There is no urgency to repair any asymmetries other than cosmetic issues. 
8 weeks should be more than enough healing.  Be sure to wear a supportive sports bra to protect them. 
Dr T

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Welcome to our forum!
Implant malposition or displacement following a breast augmentation is an unusual phenomenon. If the implant is displaced laterally, it may be termed "lateral drift". If displaced inferiorly, it may be called  "bottoming out". It is not the same as a capsular contracture, where the implant becomes entrapped in scar and may be firm, misshapened, and often malpositioned.
It may be caused by the use of large heavy implants, in patients with weakened connective tissues, or may occur during surgical pocket creation.
Prevention consists of breast support, especially during exercise.
Treatment consists of capsulorraphy, where the implant pocket is repositioned and the pocket is tightened. It is not an emergent procedure, but the untreated deformity may be noticeable.
Best wishes...

How bad does a displaced/shifted implant look? Does it need urgent correction? Is it very noticeable?

Answers (6)

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