Am I experiencing implant rippling or double bubble? Can this be caused by loose skin? 6 months post op. (photos)

Hello, thank you for your question. Rippling is a common unpreventable thing that happens with all types of implants, even the highly cohesive silicone implants. There has to be some degree of softness in the implant but with that we sacrifice the rippling affect. This is more apparent in people with thinner skin and little breast tissue on top. Consider fat grafting as an option. Speak to your plastic surgeon for some options. In the meantime feel free to check out our website for some fun before /afters.

Thank you for your question about recovery from breast augmentation and for including photos.

From the angles of the photos you posted, rippling seems more probable in your case.

For specific questions like this and about your recovery in general, it is best to speak directly with your doctor or doctor’s representative – such as his or her nurse, or the physician on call for the practice.

You will likely get many differing opinions from members of the RealSelf Community, but they have not personally seen or examined you. Nobody should know you or your unique set of circumstances better than your doctor.

If you feel you are not being listened to or you are doubting your doctor’s recommendations, then it is certainly within your rights to seek a second opinion and get the advice from another board certified physician. This should be done through an in-person consultation with a thorough evaluation, including a review of your history, review of all prior treatment and with a physical examination.

Best Wishes.

Based on your photographs, there are two things going on with your breasts. You have visible rippling on the middle portion of the right breast as you mentioned. The rippling is a result of the breast tissue not providing adequate coverage of the implant. Ultra high profile implants will stretch and thin the soft tissues, which can make the implants more visible. The other thing I see is that the implants are too low or bottomed out. The lower part of your breast has much more volume than the upper part. Bottoming out can occur with heavy, large implants and/or poor support of the soft tissues. You would need revision surgery to properly position the implants on the chest wall but would be at risk of recurrence.

Dear Michaela61242,
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

Your heavy implants are bottoming out some due to the weight. I would suggest wearing an underwire bra during the day and a very good support bra when exercising.

Your photos indicate that your implants may be bottoming out. This is typically due to the implant being too large for the space. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Typically surgical intervention is needed to correct this.