Left breast implant sliding off to one side.

Question

6 months ago I had 420cc Nagor implants used for my augmentation. They had been fine but also always in a tight sports bra so can't say I'd notice if it was happening sooner. When I stand up straight they seem to be ok, when I lay flat on my back my left implant falls to one side. I can freely move it back up and let it fall back down again. The other side doesn't move like this, my surgeon said keep them in a tight bra and massage for another 6 months it's not helping. Any advice?

Terrence Scamp, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hello there Sometimes the scar capsule is very soft and starts to expand allowing the implant to slip out towards the side .Once the scar capsule has stabilised [6-12 months after surgery] it is usually possible to return to the operating theatre and tighten the space back up again .Recovery from this is usually pretty smooth so it won't put you out of action for long .CheersTS

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I'm sorry to hear of your post-operative concern. It sounds like you may need a revision surgery to close down the lateral breast pocket. This will prevent the implant from migrating. Please discuss your concern with your board certified plastic surgeon. Hope this helps!

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.If the implant is sliding to the side and you can reposition it, this means that the capsule around the implant needs tightened. This procedure is called a capsullorraphy and will keep the implant in the correct position to match the other side.  The pocket around the implant is too large, massage will not help to correct this problem. I would get a second opinion.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The pocket on the side that slides might need tightening. You may not notice much change over the next six months since the space has mostly healed by now. I would suggest going back to your surgeon to discuss this issue again, or get another opinion.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problem you are experiencing. Although some “falling to these sides” of breast implants is quite normal when you lie down, if this occurs “excessively”, it may be a concern to patients.  This phenomenon is called lateral displacement of the breast implant;  it may be of concern from the visual and the discomfort standpoints. Surgical correction is an option.

Generally, the lateral breast implant displacement can be corrected using an internal suture technique, decreasing the size of the pockets and moving the implants toward the midline.    In my practice, I use  a 2 layered suture technique (capsulorraphy) to close off the space laterally (towards the axilla). The use of acellular dermal matrix is an option ( although not usually necessary)  especially if significant implant rippling/palpability is present.

I hope this (and the attached link) helps.

Left breast implant sliding off to one side.

Answers (5)