'Puckering' in cleavage 2.5 years post op breast augmentation, is this normal? (Photos)

Question

I am about 2.5 years post op from submuscular breast augmentation with high profile silicone implants. I noticed in my left breast there seems to be “puckering” causing my cleavage in my left breast to look kind wavy. Is this normal? Or something that can be fixed when I replace my current implants in a few years? The look of it bugs me a lot as it is noticeable when I go braless in a low cut top.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jj__,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

It sounds like this may just be implant rippling which is visible in areas where this isn't much fat or breast over the implant.  This is a very common thing and it occurs with lots of different silicone and saline implants.  If it bothers you, then you can change the implant to one that is more "cohesive" or firm.  Talk to your surgeon and he/she can explain this option to you.  Hope that helps.  Best of luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your implants are too large for your frame and tissue and have thinned the tissue in the area of the puckering. Also, your pockets are not identical making this more noticeable. Please go smaller when revised.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear jj,
What you are describing, which is not so visible in the photo, is probably rippling of your implant.  This is a commonly known consequence of breast implants and tends to appear later, when the tissues have been thinned over time by the pressure of the implants.  There are newer breast implant options that don't ripple as much and materials (mesh, etc) that can be placed for better implant coverage.  Sometimes fat transfer to provide better implant coverage is also an option.  Good luck!

'Puckering' in cleavage 2.5 years post op breast augmentation, is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast implant rippling

Answer: Breast implant rippling

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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'Puckering' in cleavage 2.5 years post op breast augmentation, is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast implant rippling

Answer: Breast implant rippling

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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