4 years post op - can feel implant towards lower part of the breast - can almost pop it in and out (sort of like air bubble)

What you describe is common which is the implant shell that could be folding on itself with time. The upper part of the breast implant is typically covered by the pectoral muscle and upper pole breast tissue compared to the lower pole where the implant which is mostly covered with breast tissue or nearby chest skin that is now part of the breast. The tissue is thinner here which can also thin even more with time making the implant more palpable. This is especially true near the old breast fold (inframammary crease) and the new fold created with an implant larger than the breast mound is placed. The capsule (scar tissue surrounding the implant) can tighten and deform the implant, folding and creating a crease and can create a buckle or "point" that can be pushed in and out as you have described. This can be demonstrated with a sample implant in the office. It is common in the lower pole and on the outside of the implant to feel the implant more. The contracture can worsen creating a firmer less mobile implant which can cause asymmetry and discomfort. A slowly leaking implant will loose volume and the shell can fold with time and the breast size will get smaller. Any "lump" should be evaluated by a physician as well as the the status of the implant to determine recommendations for further examinations.

It can be the edge of the implant, or it can be a new mass in your breast. Ideally, you should go to your plastic surgeon that placed the implant and ask for a follow up for them to examine you. If that is not possible, then I recommend you follow up with a board certified plastic surgeon who does a lot of breasts who will be able to examine you and get an ultrasound or CT scan if necessary to answer your question.

If this is something that you’ve recently noticed, then you should definitely see your surgeon for an assessment. It may not be an issue or your implant may have moved - either way, it’s best if your surgeon examine you.

That call reappling, it’s not toMuch trouble, the pocket opens, you can fix that with just fat transfer to the area and it willLook better, with time you will need breast lift and close that pocket

Dear ahf2003,
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

Yes, this feeling is normal, especially with saline implants, but can happen with gels. Your tissue has thinned with time and the lower edge can be felt more easily. This is usually not a problem unless your implants are too large and heavy for your tissue.

What you are feeling is likely normal characteristics of the implant. It is always best to have any changes evaluated. I encourage you to follow up with your surgeon.

Thanks for your question. There is a chance that your implant has shifted out of position, which can be remedied. I suggest you make an appointment with the PS who did your breast aug to determine if an additional procedure is needed to reposition the implant.

Best of luck!

Thank you for your question. What you are noticing is somewhat normal. The pressure from the implant has cause some of your natural breast tissue to shrink or become compressed, especially alone the lower pole of the breast. This makes your implants more palpable. You are feeling a bulge in the implant where your tissue is thinner. There is no air bubble. It would only be a concern if your skin became discolored and very thin over the implant.
I would follow up with your surgeon yearly.
J. McMahan, M.D.

Hi and welcome to our forum!It is not abnormal to feel the edges of a breast implant, whether placed under the breast or under the muscle. If it is associated with discomfort or overlying redness, reevaluation by your plastic surgeon is mandatory. Otherwise, unless there is a visible deformity, there is nothing to fear.Best wishes...