Snoopy/Waterfall Deformity at 8 Weeks? (photo)

Question

8 weeks ago I had high-profile, Mentor, silicone implants (425cc left/475cc right) placed dual-plane. Initially they rode extremely high (see previous "frankenboob" question/photos). For 6 weeks I continuously wore a strap, and I massage 6-8 times a day. The right is settling nicely, but the left appears to have a snoopy or waterfall deformity. Both are still mildly firm/taut. Will the look & feel improve in time or am I likely to need a revision? If it matters, I am 33, no kids, 5'8", 140 lbs.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to an accurate assessment of your situation, advice, predictions, and/or meaningful reassurance.
Generally speaking, breast implants will "drop" into the pocket that was created during surgery and massaging the implants downward may assist in the dropping of the implants after surgery (for those patients who want to help with the settling of the implants). The rate of breast implant "settling" may depend on factors such as size of breast implant pocket dissected, tightness of the overlying skin/muscle layers, and size of breast implant utilized. 
Normally, it takes about 3-6 months (for some patients longer) to see the final result. It is very common for one side to settle faster than the other.
 As breast implants "settle", they tend to round out the lower breast poles. As this occurs, the nipple/areola complexes seem higher on each breast mound.

If, in the longer term, you have the same concerns, revisionary breast surgery will be necessary to improve your outcome. This type of surgery often involves adjustment of the breast implant capsules (capsulotomy) and/or (in some cases) breast lifting surgery.

If revisionary breast surgery becomes necessary, my best advice: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that he/she has significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, communicate your goals carefully, as  well.   I find that the use of goal photographs and computer imaging are very helpful during this communication phase. Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve your goals.  Best wishes.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Please wait until about three to four months after your surgery to assess your results. Your breast appears like it hasn't entirely settled, yet.

Michael Horn, MD · Answer

I would suggest massaging downward on the implants. A velcro strap above the breast called a bando can also help to fill out your lower breast with the implants. If after several more months, you are still concerned with the shape, you could consider a lift or perhaps a re-position of the implants.

Jennifer Lauren Crawford, MD · Answer

Thank you for the pictures.  At 8 weeks out, it is still too early to make a decision about a revision.  At least 3 months (or more) need to pass before understanding more about what your final result will look like.  I will say that it is unlikely to see more "settling" after 3 months.  I would continue the massage and push-down wrap for now.  Your left implant is indeed sitting high and I hope this does not also represent some capsular contracture as you mentioned that the breasts feel quite firm.  If it remains this way, you may need a revision of your implant pocket to lower the breast.

Andrew Stewart, MD · Answer

I suspect your right side will be fine after another 2 months. However I am suspicious that you may have some contracture on the left which may need  inferior release. You had significant asymmetry before surgery. There is no harm waiting for another 2 months to see if there will be change.  If surgery is required on the left it is fairly minimal. Good luck!

Snoopy/Waterfall Deformity at 8 Weeks? (photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Possible Implant Malposition

Answer: Possible Implant Malposition

Answer: Snoopy deformity

Answer: Snoopy deformity

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Snoopy/Waterfall Deformity at 8 Weeks? (photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Possible Implant Malposition

Answer: Possible Implant Malposition

Answer: Snoopy deformity

Answer: Snoopy deformity

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mentor Breast Implants

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