Possible implant flip 16 months post op with Mentor silicone ultra high profile under muscle

Question

went to my surgeon today over concerns of a sudden change in my right breast. Palpable and visible rippling on outer side. Also slight change in shape to me but my surgeon didn’t feel the shape was much different. He said it’s either because I’m thin or the implant has flipped. He tried to flip it but couldn’t get it to. He said give it a few weeks and he can try again. Should I let him try? would mri show anything? Second opinion? Leave it alone since it’s not extremely obvious?

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

I would extremely surprised if your implants flipped.  Your body forms a scar capsule around the implants very early after your procedure and this capsule holds the implants in place.  To flip an implant so that the back is now in the front is next to impossible.  First question to ask is whether your surgeon is actually a Plastic Surgeon or simply a "Cosmetic Surgeon" (as many surgeons are in your area).  If he/she is not a Plastic Surgeon I would urge you to seek out a trained PS.  But if your surgeon is indeed a PS, then I would ask their opinion on how to move forward.I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACS PCEOBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Ravi Somayazula, DO · Answer

It is unlikely the implant flipped. The only way to know for sure is to surgically open the pocket and examine it. I do not think it is required. If the shape does not bother you then do nothing. As far as rippling, this is occurs when there is less soft tissue coverage over a particular area of the implant. This also can occur but is nothing to worry about. Regards,
  
Dr. Ravi Somayazula
  
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery- American Board of Medical Specialties
  
Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)- Subcommittee Task Force on Patient Safety
  
Member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)
  
Member of the Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons, Harris County Medical Society

Sean Hill, MD · Answer

Thank you so much for your question. 
It is quite difficult to assess your situation without pictures. However, it is fairly unlikely for the implant to flip, though in a small patient it is not unusual for the implant to be palpable and ripple in the lower later area of the breast especially with ultra high profile implants. If the implants are in the sub glandular position then this is an even higher risk. I suspect that is what you are experiencing and not a flipped implant. 
I doubt the implant flipped, and I would leave it be at this time. 
I hope this answers your question and good luck.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

If the implant is not bothering you, leave it alone.  Hopefully, if it has flipped, it will flip back on it's own.  Follow up with your surgeon for routine visits.

Possible implant flip 16 months post op with Mentor silicone ultra high profile under muscle

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Answer: Possible Implant Flip

Answer: Possible Implant Flip

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Possible implant flip 16 months post op with Mentor silicone ultra high profile under muscle

Answers (4)

Answer: Possible Implant Flip

Answer: Possible Implant Flip

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