Could my 12 year old implants be drooping due to malposition or can this be capsular contracture? (photos)

Question

About a year ago my right breast started to droop in an unnatural way (nipple down first), as compared to the right. I am also experiencing a fold at the bottom and the size of my right breast is now smaller than my left. Neither breast feels extra firm and I am experiencing zero pain; both breasts feel the same as always. My implants are under the muscle and around 12 years old. I was thinking capsular contracture but they aren't feeling extra firm.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear myteethvista,
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

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

Hi.  It looks like there is mild capsular contracture.  If it's stable, not causing pain, and not bothering you aesthetically, then you may not have to do anything about it.  However, whenever there is any change, I would suggest an in-person evaluation to make sure that there isn't anything else going on (i.e. implant rupture).  If you want to improve the look, then your surgeon can discuss the options with you.  Best of luck!

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It is important that you consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon, who can perform a physical examination and possibly imaging to determine the cause of your breast asymmetry.

It doesn’t look like it’s capsular contracture but other possibilities may include implant rupture, implant malposition, or changes in breast tissue unrelated to the implants.

Breast implants, like any medical device, are not designed to last indefinitely. As time passes, they may become more prone to complications, such as rupture or deflation. It is possible that your implants may need to be replaced, but this will depend on the underlying cause of the asymmetry and the condition of the implants themselves.

In the meantime, it is important to continue monitoring your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or texture, and to follow up with your plastic surgeon as recommended.

Best of luck !

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your capsule has changed the shape of your breasts. If you have saline implants, you may also have a partial deflation. Gel does not deflate. Please be examined by your plastic surgeon.

Could my 12 year old implants be drooping due to malposition or can this be capsular contracture? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Could my 12 year old implants be drooping due to malposition or can this be capsular contracture? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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