Is This Lateral Displacement? If So, Early Enough to Stop It from Getting Worse? (photo)

Breast augmentation surgery makes you a larger version of yourself. If you start with a wide bony cleavage gap and lateral flare of your breasts and nipples you typically retain that anatomy. Some patients are predisposed to lateral displacement which is essentially a normal effect from gravity. Women with sloping chest walls or with widely spaced breasts who go with larger implant sizes or have poor skin tone should realize that lateral descent of the implant is always a possibility over time. Implants do not defy gravity which is not only downward, but also lateral when you lie down. I do recommend underwire bra support day and night, and using those clips that secure the bra as a racer back seems to close the gap. However, this is an anecdotal experience, and there are no studies proving bra support helps or prevents this condition.  You appear to have a satisfactory result and would not advise you to have surgery at this time based on your photos.

During breast implant surgery a #pocket is created carefully to maintain certain folds on the sides and bottom of the breast. Occasionally, the space for the breast implant becomes too large on the #side of the chest or the tissue stretches and the implants fall too much to the side. This is most easily seen when the patient is lying on her back. At times, the implants can move towards the patient’s armpit.Yes, it is possible you are experiencing displacement. However, it may be due to your anatomy. Also,  it is still early into your healing  which will continue for 2-3 month. In fact,  it can be up to one year see your final result which is why it's best to wait to see the results.  It's usually best to wait 6 to 12 months depending on the reason for #revision and there is no guarantee another surgery will improve upon your current situation. Right now, it's best have patience and if there are any causes of concern, ask questions of the doctor or the nursing staff.

Hello W,

You have a very lovely result, especially given your lean body and smaller breasts. You have some lateral displacement in the breast opposite the arm holding the camera; the other breast looks to be in good position.  I don't think 24/7/365 bra will do much over time, and things will settle as they will settle regardless.

The problem is tissue expansion and loss of elasticity from the implant; this issue is made worse by saline filled implants, which have more density and a greater elastic component compared to silicone gel filled, worsening this expansion effect.

I think it would be reasonable to wear a bra as much as possible for the next month or two, while the implant scar capsule is still maturing and strengthening.  After that, just regular support. Also, please don't sleep on your belly!!

Best of luck!