Is this symmastia? What should I do? (photo)

Question

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Symmastia is a condition which can occur when the implants are too close together. Patients often refer to this as a “uniboob.” Occasionally, the space or pocket for the breast implant is created towards the center, or the tissue stretches, forcing  the implants to fall too much towards the center of the breasts.Correction of this problem may involve using different implants such as textured, a smaller size, or a smaller base and placing the implants in a new pocket. Sometimes, this may require surgery in more than one stage to allow the tissues to heal and then place the implants. If the implants have been placed above the muscle, converting them under the muscle frequently will help and, again, the use of a dermal substitute may be required for additional support if the tissues are thin. The techniques of #capsulorrhaphy and #neopectoral pockets may apply here as well.  But it is difficult to determine without knowing exactly when your surgery was. Or else post-op healing and swelling can easily be mistaken as #symmastia and will subside with time.  Further, if you are not satisfied with your #final #results or if there are any concerns, it's best to consult with your plastic surgeon to further discuss your #options.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to see the problem you are experiencing. Your photographs certainly demonstrates significant medial breast implant malposition;  whether this is true symmastia (with breast implants crossing the midline) is hard to tell. Although the semantics may be confusing, revision breast surgery will likely be  necessary to improve your outcome. In my practice, I utilize capsulorrhaphy techniques to repair the breast implant pockets in this area. In some cases, depending on the quality of tissues involved, the use of acellular dermal matrix is also helpful in preventing recurrence. You may find the attached link, demonstrating many examples of symmastia repair, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

From the photograph it appears as though you do have synmastia. In my opinion the safest andMost predictable management would be to remove the implants and let the chest wall heal. In six months or more I would return in redo the augmentation.

Michael B. Tantillo, MD · Answer

The photos show symmastia.  Correction of symmastia is a complelx surgical procedure that  involves creasting a new pocket for the implant and possible adding support - such as mesh or a dermal matrix - to the inner part of the pocket.  I would suggest that you discuss with your surgeon and/or a board certified plastic surgeon with a great deal of breast implant surgery experience.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

is not considered normal, nor aesthetic.  Start with your surgeon and find out what options are available to you as there are many choices to consider from suturing to use of scaffolding.  If your implant is too large, it may have to be changed as well.  And using a shaped implant may help prevent medial migration again.  But these options can only be thoroughly discussed in a face to face consultation.  If your original surgeon doesn't have a revision policy that helps decrease costs, getting another opinion would certainly help.

Is this symmastia? What should I do? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Symmastia

Answer: Symmastia

Answer: Breasts touching as yours do

Answer: Breasts touching as yours do

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.

Is this symmastia? What should I do? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Symmastia

Answer: Symmastia

Answer: Breasts touching as yours do

Answer: Breasts touching as yours do

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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.