Gel silicone implants are rippling 6 years after augmentation - should I be concerned? (photos)

Hello, thank you for your question. Rippling is completely normal, no implant is solid without wrinkling, nor would anyone want that. As we get older more of our natural subcutaneous fat and natural breast tissue decreases over time from everywhere in our body, which may explain why you are now after 6 years feeling it. If it doesn't bother you then most likely just rippling of an implant. We always recommend an in person visit with your plastic surgeon/ family doctor not to be generic in our response but in your best interest to have a physician examine you in person for a better quality response and because they know your medical history. But that was quite funny to read and we appreciate your candidness.

Thanks for your question! Even though implants are silicone, they can still ripple. If you have no other concerning symptoms with the rippling, I wouldn't be concerned. Women can lose breast tissue and support as they age, so this can happen. Good luck!

Dear Roxy727,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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

Thanks for your inquiry, even silicone breast implants can ripple. The more cohesive the gel the less, but none the less they can ripple. If you loose weight or the pockets loosen, then the rippling can be more pronounced. The rippling is not dangerous, a true fold in the implant however is something to go see your surgeon about, best of luck.

Feeling rippling in silicone breast implants is not uncommon and can be caused by a number of factors, such as the placement of the implant, the thickness of the overlying tissue, and the size and type of implant used. While it's important to have any concerns about breast implants evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional, here are some general things to consider:

Rippling can be more common in certain types of breast implants, such as those that are textured or have a thinner shell. It's possible that the rippling you're feeling is simply a result of the characteristics of the implant itself.
The location of the implant can also affect the likelihood of rippling. If the implant is placed above the muscle or in a location with thinner tissue coverage, such as the cleavage area, rippling may be more noticeable.
Weight changes or fluctuations can also affect the appearance and feel of breast implants, as can changes in breast tissue due to aging or pregnancy.
While rippling itself is not typically a medical concern, it can be a cosmetic concern for some patients. If you are concerned about the appearance or feel of your breast implants, it's best to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific situation and provide recommendations for next steps. They may recommend imaging tests, such as an MRI, to better evaluate the condition of the implants. In some cases, revision surgery may be necessary to address rippling or other cosmetic concerns.

I hope this helps,
Best of luck !

Cohesive silicone implants or gummy bear implants are a lot less likely to cause "rippling" than saline implants. However, that does not mean it doesn't happen. It is pretty common to feel the rippling with gel implants, especially on the sides. Over time breasts change and you may start to notice rippling that you never noticed before. This is especially common after the breast tissue becomes thinner due to weight loss, post-pregnancy, aging, etc. If you aren't experiencing any other issues, you should be perfectly fine. Hope that helps!

Because of the weight of your implants, you have some tissue thinning and stretching which encourages more ripples to be seen and felt. Always wear a good supporting bra. Don't let the girls bounce, or go smaller and get a lift.

hello this is dr. can I like to explain what you need here or at WhatsApp. rippling after silicone implant is known as common especially for tiny patient. Of course it will be best for you if you can get a ultrason or mrı to check inside. ıf everything will be ok, until you may want to get a surgery for this situation, you can wait. most probably you will be fine, this situation will be cosmetic only. let me know if you have any question or need. have a great day!

Roxy,
It is not uncommon to feel rippling some time after the initial augmentation. Some factors that may increase rippling are:
Weight loss (which reduces the subcutaneous fat just under the skin allowing the implants to be seen)
Normal settling to implants with skin stretching. Sometimes even the pressure of the implants causes atrophy (loss of subcutaneous fat between the implant and skin)

Your breasts look beautiful right now so it is not a visual cosmetic issue (unless the rippling is clearly visible).
Best wishes,
Dr. Taranow

It is not uncommon for folds in the show of silicone gel implants to occur and to be palpable through the skin.

This is especially true and thin fit persons with low body fat. In patients who have more subcutaneous adipose tissue or fat these folds are less palpable.

Of course if you are having pain or if you notice a lump in the breast tissue this must be examined and worked up if not by your surgeon then by a breast surgeon.