Implant dropped, is this normal? Can this be fixed? (Photo)

It is important to remember they are "sisters not twins." There are commonly variations in size, shape, ptosis (sagging) and position.

The implants will sit behind the native breast the level of the native fold. If the folds were uneven pre-op this will persist post op. If the scar does not appear to have migrated upwards (on the right) or downwards (on the left), then it is very likely this was a natural asymmetry.

Fold asymmetry can be corrected by either lowering the higher fold or raising the lower fold. However, it is important to understand that the native fold is an anatomic structure and as such violating it should be undertaken with some measure of caution as it is difficult to restore secondarily.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Dear Tough463704,

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

Do you have any before photos to show the change? That would be quite helpful. It is difficult to determine the result without seeing the prior.

thank you for posting your question. The volume distribution of the implant is different when comparing the 2 sides. The volume of the right breast is located lower, whereas the volume on your left side is more on the upper pole. The height of the nipple/areola is nearly equal. Depending on which side you prefer, you can either lower the left or elevate the right breast implant. Lowering a breast implant pocket is most of the times easier than rising. In order to achieve symmetry both sides need to be addressed. An improvement seems to be achievable considering your preoperative situation. I hope this helps

Thanks for your question! Your before photos would be helpful, but I would definitely suggest another opinion. I can't tell from the photos but you may have a capsular contracture on the higher side or you're a little bottomed out on the lower side. Either way, I do think it is fixable.

Thank you for submitting your questions and photos. I'm sorry to hear that you are not satisfied with your result. Based on your photos, you do have options to improve your symmetry. Your plastic surgeon can either lower the high implant, or raise the breast fold on the lower implant to push it up. With just your photo, it's a bit difficult to determine exactly which option would work better for you. The nipple/areola is in a better, more centralized, location on the lower side, so it may be better to release the capsule on the higher side and let that implant come down. This will also improve the projection/location of the nipple/areola on that side. I highly recommend you seek out a board certified plastic surgeon to go over your options in more detail. Good luck and thank you again for reaching out.

I can’t quite see the scar placement due to the photo resolution, but your photo does a great job of showing what concerns you. Regardless of any natural asymmetry you may have had, this issue can definitely be corrected. While lowering the higher implant might seem like the simpler option, the real issue is actually with the implant that sits lower. It’s also helpful to consider which breast shape and position you prefer.

Raising the lower implant is a very feasible solution using a procedure called capsulorrhaphy, where the capsule around the implant is reshaped to lift the pocket from the inside. This requires some precision to recreate a smooth, rounded lower breast contour at a higher position. You’ve done a great job being patient and waiting the full year—this has allowed the capsule to strengthen enough for reshaping and to ensure a stable, lasting result.

Dr.B.

It sounds like you're experiencing noticeable asymmetry in your breast implants, with one appearing to be lower than the other. This issue can occur for various reasons, including pre-existing asymmetry, implant malposition, or even the "bottoming out" of one implant. While it's common for some asymmetry to be present after surgery, this level of difference may indicate that one implant has shifted over time. There are several potential options depending on the specific cause:
-Elevating the Lower Implant: If one implant has dropped lower than the other, it can be repositioned or the inframammary fold (the breast fold under the breast) can be elevated to a more balanced position.
-Lowering the Higher Implant: If one implant is too high, it can be repositioned to create a more symmetrical appearance.
Some surgeons may use meshes or sutures to help support the implants and avoid recurrence of the issue.
It's essential to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in breast revision surgery to assess your individual situation and discuss your best options for correction. Revising the implant position can improve symmetry and restore your desired results.
Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHSHarvard, Hopkins, & Mayo Clinic Trained Aesthetic Plastic SurgeonNew York, New York

Looking at your photo I'm guessing you had preoperative asymmetry of the breast fold/lower border as well as where the nipple is located. Your incisions are probably at different "heights" because the base of your breast is at a different height on your chest. Breast implants can make pre-existing asymmetries more obvious. The left sided implant could be lowered a bit to improve the asymmetry. You should speak with your surgeon again or seek a second opinion.

You may benefit from a revision to lift the lower implant to improve the final symmetry. This can be done with IV sedation in an office setting.