Why are my implants bulging out on sides? (photos)

Question

I had breast lift and silicone implants placed under the muscle 6 weeks ago. I feel as if my left breast is bulging out on the side and it is very hard. My right is softer and I can move it around. I went to see my doc 8 days ago and he prescribed sigulair and gave me a compression band to soften and lower my implants. Will my implants move inward and fill the saggy skin in?

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

Your pictures indicate superior lateral mal-position of your left breast implant following the combination of breast augmentation and breast lift surgery. This problem could occur for a variety of reasons including inadequate inferior pocket dissection, failure of the implant to drop into normal position with resultant closure of the inferior pocket, and over dissection of the lateral implant pocket. Although capsular contracture is a possibility, this is unlikely this early in the postoperative course unless associated with hematoma formation.Although your pictures are helpful, it's virtually impossible to make a specific treatment recommendation without performing a physical examination. In general terms, it's reasonable to use a support bra to prevent the implant from moving laterally and a superior bandeau to expand the pocket in an inferior direction. These maneuvers may or may not be successful.If unsuccessful, secondary revisional surgery might be necessary to close the lateral pocket and expand the inferior pocket. This type of surgery should be delayed for at least six months to optimize wound healing and minimize swelling.It's important to maintain close contact with your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should be able to monitor your progress and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and its also possible that it may not.  Still best to follow your surgeon's advice and hope for the best and realize that revisions can always correct concerns you may have.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Very very poorly done surgery is my guess without an in person examination and review of the operative reports...

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If your implant is bulging laterally it may mean that the pocket is too open laterally. Hard to say without an exam. It is also a bit early, and things settle a bit over a few months.

Lewis Ladocsi, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi jmk8740.  After looking at your pictures, I think your breast shape will improve with time as the swelling resolves.  My guess is that your doctor is giving you good advice, and that you will be very satisfied with the results of your surgery.

Why are my implants bulging out on sides? (photos)

Answers (6)