Breast Implant Looks Weird on X-ray (photo)

Question

Hello! I had my breast augmentation July of 2023 - I have the double bubble which the surgeon refused to fix because it ‘wasn’t his fault’ which, it was, but I recently had X-rays done and one of my breasts looks weird. I do not have any pain, lumps, they are both the same size, etc. Any idea?? Gummy bear implants

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

A "double bubble" is a known complication of breast augmentation. Some surgeons will offer to treat this at a reduced or no cost but are not required to do so. X-rays rarely provide valuable information for breast implants. To evaluate the implants an MRI or high-resolution ultrasound would be suggested.

Morad Askari, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your question. X-rays are not very reliable for evaluating breast implants. Breast implants on X-ray images do not provide detailed information about the implant shell or surrounding tissues and can sometimes look distorted or asymmetrical. This doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem, especially if you're not experiencing pain, shape changes, or signs of rupture. You can have a breast MRI if you want to assess implant integrity and positioning.

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your question. X-rays are not the best studies to view breast implants. What you see on the x-ray may be gas from the abdomen. If there is concern about the implant, an ultrasound may be the best option. Regarding your double bubble, switching to a smaller implant and using mesh or switching the implant to above the muscle (if it is under the muscle) can help resolve your issue. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The area that you mentioned could be an air bubble.  It's best to discuss it with your surgeon or the ordering physician.  A double bubble can occur for many reasons but it is most commonly seen when a patient has implants that are large.  Changing to smaller implants and/or adding support bioabsorbable mesh may lower the risk.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jordanclight,

I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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

Breast Implant Looks Weird on X-ray (photo)

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Answer: X Ray

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Answer: Breast Implant Looks Weird on X-ray

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Breast Implant Looks Weird on X-ray (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: X Ray

Answer: X Ray

Answer: Breast Implant Looks Weird on X-ray

Answer: Breast Implant Looks Weird on X-ray

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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