Can a bear hug displace your implant or cause it to move? (photos)

Question

In June I saw an old friend. He was drinking and gave me a huge bear hug almost took the wind out of me. Ive silicone implants since 2007. Suddenly my cleavage looks different and I feel a burning feeling in the top of my muscle. Ive been told its not symmastia, most likely tenting amd sagging since I'm 22 months post partum. I feel my right breast is moving toward the center of my chest and my breasts are looking different each day. My doctor says its nothing to be concerned about but I am.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Your breast implant is designed to resist even the most intense pressure from a hug. As a mother myself, my instinct is that the changes that you are experiencing are due to your pregnancy. My advice would be to make an appointment with your operating surgeon or another board certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss your concerns.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear darby242In general, breast implants are designed to resist rupture from pressure / compression so hugs are unlikely to easily rupture your implants. Your photos do not indicate any noticeable anatomy that would suggest displacement either. IF you are concerned about implant rupture (since these are 8 yrs old) you could get an MRI to confirm implant integrity. Although I dont see any evidence of rupture, silent rupture is always a possibilty that needs to be considered.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,I would agree that it is more likely your changes are related to the pregnancy as many women notice significant breast changes post partum. Continue to follow up with your Plastic Surgeon if you have ongoing pain or hardness/malposition develop.All the best

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

That far out from surgery it would be highly unlikely that anything like a bear hug could misplace or damage your implants.  Likely the changes are related to your recent pregnancy.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photographs and questions.  After 8 years, the capsule that surrounds your implant is quite strong and does not permit much movement, unless time has stretched out this tissue.  Based on your narrative it sounds as if the hug caused some soft tissue injury resulting in your symptoms, as there is no obvious problem in your pictures.  Continue to have close follow up with your surgeon, they can provide you with reassurance.

Can a bear hug displace your implant or cause it to move? (photos)

Answers (8)