Why do my implants look like this? Is it capsular contracture? (Photo)

Question

I had my boobs done about 4 years ago, they’ve always seemed wonky but nowhere near as bad as they are now. They seem to have a fold along one implant as though the implant is sitting on top of another one. One side really falls down to the right when lying down whereas the other one sits upright. I definitely need these replacing but is there a capsular contraction or something I should be aware upon replacement?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

It appears you have a double bubble on the left breast.  The fold you see is your original fold and the implant pocket was dissected creating the other fold.  Also, your breast most likely has a capsular contracture, that is why one is higher.  The pocket is too large on the right breast, that is why it falls off to the right side.  I recommend smaller implants sub-muscular with plication of the existing pockets.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear savannahheart,
though rare, some women who undergo breast augmentation will develop a minor deformity known as a “double bubble,” in which additional folds appear underneath the breasts due to the implant accidentally shifting or contracting post-surgery. In most cases, the implant simply slipped too far down the chest wall and traveled behind the breast inframammary crease (the area where the lower breast meets the chest), instead of moving forward to fill the breast cavity. If left untreated, the lopsided implant will form unnatural indentations, resulting in an odd “four-breast effect” rather than the full, rounded chest the patient initially desired.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your one side has stretched the pocket and bottomed out and sits too far laterally when laying down. the other side might be ok, but an examination is needed to be certain. Your pocket can be tightened, and you might need mesh for support. do not go larger since this will make the problem worse.  I would suggest going smaller.

Why do my implants look like this? Is it capsular contracture? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Why do my implants look like this? Is it capsular contracture? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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