Will my implant stop moving over time? Can I expect it to settle higher and symmetrical? (photos)

Question

I underwent breast augmentation surgery 7 months ago with polyurethane implants. The recovery went well and the breast were looking great, but in february a foreign body (a gauze) was discovered on ultrasound so I underwent another surgery to remove the gauze. My surgeon removed the polyurethane coating before reinserting the implant. Now (2 months after ) my right breast is looking different, is lower than the left one and the implant is moving. Can I hope for a symmetrical look over time?

William Lao, MD · Answer

It is hard to determine whether the issue is with your right or left implant actually. from simply looking at the photo, The right (your right) actually seems to have the natural droop and tear drop shape, while your left implant appears to be too high riding and also contracted in appearance. It is possible you have something called capsule contracture on the left but physical exam will be needed before any useful diagnosis.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Reserved291604,
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

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It would be beneficial for you to see your surgeon for an assessment because of the significant asymmetry.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! It looks as though your right breast implant is in the proper position. The left implant may have capsular contracture, so that will require surgery. Good luck!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Polyurethane was devised to prevent capsular contracture. Removing the polyurethane slightly changes the volume of the breast as well as it's interaction with surrounding tissue. Most likely you will have asymmetry persisting as the two implants are now different.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Scott Tucker, MD · Answer

Usually after this period of time we are not going to have a whole lot of change in your result. In your photos it appears as if your right side is the good side and your left side is higher and tighter and I am guessing it is probably firmer feeling. This is more than likely secondary to a capsular contracture. This would require further surgery to do an open capsulectomy to take out the scar tissue around the implant and probably replace it with a new implant to decrease the chances of re-forming a capsule. On occasion people will again develop a capsule and then you just have to decide whether you want to live with the asymmetry or removing her implants and go back to your original self.

Azita Madjidi, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

from the pictures your left breast seems to be a bit higher and the left one in a good position. Since both implants are not perfectly identical and one breast had a second surgery, the asymmetry may persist. Your breasts might have been asymmetrical to begin with. Best is to discuss it with your surgeon who has prior exam and pictures and can guide you on the recovery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the submitted photos the lower breast is in good position but the other is still being held high.  This can be for several reasons.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation.  The implants will naturally move with the breast tissue.  If it moves too excessively sometimes the pocket can be adjusted.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about what you have been through.   It sounds like you're concerned about the position of your Right, lower implant.   This implant is actually in a perfect position, with a beautiful shape.   It is your Left, higher implant that is of concern.  This implant is higher than it should be.   You may be developing a capsular contracture on this side.   Frequently when you develop a capsular contracture, the implant moves up and gets more firm.   Talk with your surgeon or get another opinion.   
Good luck

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Actually, your right breast in the in proper position and your left breast is sitting high and tight. With the polyurethane coating, it will not drop. The right breast has movement like a natural breast should. Please go back to your surgeon and discuss your options for the left breast.

Will my implant stop moving over time? Can I expect it to settle higher and symmetrical? (photos)

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