Is it normal for an implant to move in a short space of time? (Photos)

Question

Ive had my breast surgery nearly 2 years ago. I took my bikini picture before i went away and when i got home i noticed my implant looks like it has moved or kind of flat near clevage. It is a bit tender to touch too. Can capsular come on in such short notice like that ? Im worried now im going to have to have them removed.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is uncommon for changes to occur in such a short time, but if they do, it is important to have them assessed by your surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Robyn27272,

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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tyler Sbrocchi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, it is best to be evaluated in person to determine if this is capsular contracture or another issue going on. Typically capsular contracture does not present with rapid and quick onset in a short period of time but it is important to be evaluated in person to determine the cause. Implants can also flip at times and if they are higher profile and can appear "flatter" than previously if this is what happened. If that is the case this can be flipped back into position typically without surgery.

Kadir Berat Oyur, MD · Answer

We have reviewed your photo. The changes may be related to implant displacement or capsular contracture. We recommend an in-person consultation to determine whether breast implant revision is needed.

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

Implants can certainly change position, but usually do so over long periods of time as the breast tissue also changes.  More rapid changes may be due to capsular contracture, or some other process.  It would probably be helpful to see a plastic surgeon to give you a better understanding of what may be happening.

Yasemin Aydinli, MD · Answer

A visible shape change with new tenderness two years out can indicate early capsular contracture, a fold, or rarely an implant issue, and yes &mdash; contracture can develop relatively quickly. This doesn't automatically mean removal; many cases are managed with monitoring or a smaller revision. An exam and possibly an ultrasound will give you a clear answer, so have it checked soon rather than worrying.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Your photo appears to show some asymmetry and flattening near the inner breast/cleavage area, but a photo cannot determine whether the implant has moved, the pocket has stretched, or the capsule has tightened. Capsular contracture can develop after two years, but it usually shows as increasing firmness, tightness, distortion, a higher implant position, and sometimes pain; it should not be diagnosed from a photo alone. An in-person exam with your original surgeon or another board-certified plastic surgeon is appropriate for a new tender area or visible shape change.

Removal is not automatically the next step. During an exam, the surgeon would check implant position, breast firmness, the implant pocket, whether there was recent pressure or trauma, and whether imaging such as ultrasound or MRI is needed if rupture, fluid, or a late seroma is a concern. Older photos are useful for comparing the change accurately. If you develop increasing swelling, redness, warmth, fever, drainage, or rapidly worsening pain, contact your surgeon promptly or seek urgent care.

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Hello. Based on your photo and the symptoms you described, it is possible that this could be related to capsular contracture or a change in the implant position, but it is not possible to confirm this from a photo alone. 
Capsular contracture can sometimes become noticeable over a relatively short period, causing changes in breast shape, firmness, discomfort, or tenderness.
I recommend scheduling an in-person evaluation with your plastic surgeon as soon as possible. An ultrasound or other imaging study may also be helpful to assess the implant and determine the cause of the change.
The good news is that this does not necessarily mean your implants need to be removed. The appropriate treatment will depend on the underlying cause, and in many cases, revision surgery can correct the problem while preserving the implants if they are still in good condition.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Do not panic or worry about implant removal at this time.  Schedule a visit with your board certified plastic surgeon.  She/He can evaluate you and let you know if there is a cause for concern and will advise of next steps.  I've included a video about capsular contracture that I hope you find helpful.

Is it normal for an implant to move in a short space of time? (Photos)

Answers (9)

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