Rippling, possibly bottom out? Why does this happen and how can it be fixed? (Photos)

Question

Hello, I’m 39 year old female that underwent Natrella Inspira Soft touch 365 cc bilaterally under the muscle exactly 3 years ago. After the procedure I accidentally got pregnant with our 3rd child (I was told I wouldn’t be able to get pregnant again). It’s been 2 years since the baby was born. I am also a runner and ran a marathon about 8 months ago. I’ve always to some degree felt rippling in the upper pole near cleavage but over the last 6 months have noticed it more visibly especially in the leaning forward position and now upright after bending over. I’ve had no significant weight changes with exception of pregnancy And use high compression sports bras for working out I’m going to my original Surgeon but I would inside as to why this is happening and how it can be fixed. Is my running a problem?

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

All implants will ripple when leaning forward. in most cases they are covered with adequate tissue to hide this. Your implants are under the muscle, but it appears that the areas where the rippling is visible is beyond the lower edge of the muscles. The appearance after pregnancy is likely related to a loss of tissue coverage. You may have less breast tissue or fat after the pregnancy. Sometimes implants will show rippling after time just due to natural stretching and thinning of the overlying tissue. This is more common with larger implants. There are not many options to treat this. Fat grafting may improve the appearance but will not likely hide this completely.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for the inquiry!  We would love to sit down with you to discuss your concerns.  Typically, when you have thin skin, you can see some rippling.  A little fat transfer can hide the rippling.  As long as you are wearing a good compression bra when running, it should be fine.  Schedule a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns and photos. As a plastic surgeon, I tell all of my augmentation patients that the key to having a natural result is to make sure that the implant is hidden by your existing anatomy. I anticipate that your surgeon was thinking the same thing, That's why your implants were placed under the muscle (at least in part) and they chose a Natrelle soft touch implants (somewhat cohesive but still soft). I would have done the same things. The great unknown was your pregnancy. During and after pregnancy, many women experience some loss of breast tissue and fat. That reduces the tissue covering the implants (which don't change with pregnancy). Your running is great for your health but it can cause strain on the breast tissue. The implants can become more visible and obvious.
There are several things which can help. That includes shifting to highly cohesive gel implants, using mesh to reinforce the capsule, or fat transfer. Each option has advantage as well as risks. See what your surgeon suggests. The decision is based on how much this bothers you. Best of luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Rippling and wrinkling can be seen when there is inadequate tissue to camouflage the implant.  It can be more frequent in those with loose or thin skin as well as those with smaller amounts of native breast tissue.  It is also more common in those with larger implants.

Paul E. Chasan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I have been in practice over 30 years and breast implant revision surgery is a large portion of my practice.  It appears that your wrinkling is significant.  This usually represents implants on top of the muscle.  I would replace your implants underneath the muscle and reposition your nipples to more central location as well.  You should be able to have an excellent result.  Best wishes to you.

Rippling, possibly bottom out? Why does this happen and how can it be fixed? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Rippling and wrinkling

Answer: Rippling and wrinkling

Answer: Breast implant revision

Answer: Breast implant revision

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Rippling, possibly bottom out? Why does this happen and how can it be fixed? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Rippling and wrinkling

Answer: Rippling and wrinkling

Answer: Breast implant revision

Answer: Breast implant revision

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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.