Can breast implants cause breathing issues?

In the early post op period, many augmentation patients will complain of tightness and chest pressure. This will typically resolve over time.

With regards to your specific question, 2 years post op it is uncommon to develop new onset shortness of breath. While I would not rule out anxiety, regular shortness of breath is a symptom that should never be taken lightly. My concern surrounding an implant related origin is low. However, I would encourage you to seek out evaluation by your primary care physician.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

It is possible that the weight of your implants, being that they’re so large for your frame, is pressing down on your chest and impacting your breathing throughout the night. However, without an in-person assessment, it would be difficult to give you an opinion. Please see your primary care physician to discuss.

1- Airway problems: You might have septal deviation or sleep apnea. Try to humidify the air in your room and change your sleeping position. Watch for sleep apnea symptoms, maybe you are breathing from your mouth. You can consult to a sleep clinic.
2- Breast implant related problems: As you have big implants the pressure can indeed cause this kind of problem. Also you might have an onset of capsular contraction or breast implant illness. If you have capsular contraction you should also have some pain and irregularity. With breast implant illness you should experience symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, dry eyes and many other health concerns. Please consider these as well.

Because you have large implants the weight on your chest may be too much and lead to the symptoms you mentioned. It is also possible that the breathing issues are completely unrelated to the implants. It's best to visit with your primary care physician for an evaluation.

If you were 32 G to start and added 1050 cc implants, you have elephants on your chest which can be too heavy at night. I suggest removing those massive implants and have a reduction so that you have remove the weight off your neck and shoulders, find clothes that fit, and enjoy activities.

Large breast implants, especially on a small frame, can potentially cause breathing issues by placing pressure on the chest wall, altering posture, or causing capsular contracture. Anxiety, respiratory issues, or cardiac concerns could also contribute. Consult your surgeon and a doctor to evaluate the implants and rule out other causes. Adjusting sleep posture and addressing posture may help in the meantime.