Can breast implants cause breathing issues?

Question

Hi there, It will be two years in Feb 2025, I had natural 32g breast to start with so already large Chested and I had a 1050cc ultra high round motiva implants. I am 5’1 and weigh 115 pounds (120 with the implants) so I am a small/slim person. Lately I have been struggling to sleep at night and I wake up feeling like I’m struggling to breath, I’m also feeling sort of restrictive breathing or sort of like my chest is tight through out the day. Could it be the implants or anxiety? Thank you

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

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).

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

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.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

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.

Mustafa Aydinol, MD · Answer

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.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

Can breast implants cause breathing issues?

Answers (6)

Answer: There might be few reasons why you experience this

Answer: There might be few reasons why you experience this

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Can breast implants cause breathing issues?

Answers (6)

Answer: There might be few reasons why you experience this

Answer: There might be few reasons why you experience this

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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