Can breast implants that have settled in the armpits be fixed with another surgery?

Question

I had BA in March 2015, which means I am 6 months post op. I have 330cc high profile under the muscle. My implants seem to have settled into my armpits and are very far apart. Is there a way to fix this problem?

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  If implants have displaced too far laterally, it might be correctable by closing the outer part of the implant capsule and making more space along the inner part.  A plastic surgeon can explain your specific options in more detail.

Edwin C. Pound, III, MD · Answer

This is not an uncommon problem that I have seen in my career.  The problem can usually be fixed by closing off the implant pocket laterally so that it can't drift outwards.  This can be done with stitches inside the pocket (capsulorrhaphy) or with the addition of ADM (Alloderm, Surgimend, etc.).  ADM's are VERY expensive and I find that I can fix these problems without them.  I would suggest that you schedule an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can examine you and review your options with you.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problem you are experiencing after breast augmentation surgery. Based on your description, it seems like you are experiencing a breast implant displacement problem.
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.    Doing so will prevent the breast implants from migrating to the sides when you lie down and will help centralize the position on the breast mounds. In my practice, this repair is done with a 2 layered suture technique. 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 (dedicated to lateral breast implant displacement concerns), helps.

John Dean, MD · Answer

Yes, laterally displaced implants can definitely be improved with revision surgery.  You need to see your original surgeon and express your concerns.  A plan can be formulated to correct the problem. If you are uncomfortable with the evaluation and plan, get another opinion.

Lisa M. DiFrancesco, MD · Answer

Yes your breast implants can be fixed. It sounds like the pocket is lateral and maybe too large. The pocket can be closed with sutures and if the sutures need reinforcement seri scaffold can be used. Seri is much cheaper then the ADMs and I have had great long term results with seri.

Can breast implants that have settled in the armpits be fixed with another surgery?

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Answer: Laterally displaced implants

Answer: Laterally displaced implants

Answer: Breast Implants

Answer: Breast Implants

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Can breast implants that have settled in the armpits be fixed with another surgery?

Answers (10)

Answer: Laterally displaced implants

Answer: Laterally displaced implants

Answer: Breast Implants

Answer: Breast Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.