Breast Implant malposition
Breast Implant malposition
Breast implant malposition refers to a condition in which the breast implants are not properly positioned within the breast pocket created during breast augmentation surgery. In a successful breast augmentation procedure, the implants should be symmetrically positioned, centred behind the nipples, and create a natural and balanced appearance. However, malposition can occur due to various reasons, leading to an unnatural or asymmetrical breast appearance.
Breast Implant Malposition Symptoms
It’s important to note that these symptoms are general indicators of breast implant malposition. The specific symptoms experienced by an individual may vary depending on their unique situation. If you suspect breast implant malposition or are experiencing changes in the appearance or position of your breast implants, please book an appointment for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.
The symptoms of breast implant malposition can vary depending on the specific type and severity of the malposition. Here are some common symptoms associated with different types of breast implant malposition:
Bottoming Out
- The nipple appears to be positioned too high on the breast mound.
- The implant descends below the natural breast fold, creating a low-lying breast appearance.
- The upper part of the breast appears empty or deflated.
Double Bubble
- A visible line or crease is present across the lower part of the breast, giving the appearance of two separate breast mounds.
- The breast implant appears to be sitting below the natural breast fold.
- The upper portion of the breast may appear overly full, while the lower portion appears empty or flattened.
Symmastia
- The appearance of a single breast mound, with the implants positioned too closely together.
- A loss of natural cleavage, with the breasts appearing to merge in the midline of the chest.
Lateral Displacement
- The implants are positioned too far towards the sides of the chest.
- A wide gap is present between the breasts.
- The breasts may appear asymmetrical in terms of position and shape.
High Riding Implants
- The implants are positioned too high on the chest.
- The upper portion of the breast appears overly full and round.
- The lower part of the breast may appear deflated or empty.
What causes breast implant malposition?
Breast implant malposition can occur due to various factors, including surgical technique, anatomical variations, implant characteristics, and postoperative factors. Here are some common causes of breast implant malposition:
Surgical Technique
The surgical technique used during breast augmentation plays a significant role in implant positioning. Factors such as improper pocket dissection, inadequate pocket creation, or failure to secure the implant in the desired position can contribute to malposition. Surgeons with less experience or insufficient attention to detail may be more prone to these issues.
Anatomical Variations
An individual’s natural anatomy can influence the risk of implant malposition. Anatomical factors such as a tight or thin breast tissue envelope, weak or stretched breast ligaments, or variations in chest wall shape and size can affect implant placement and potentially lead to malposition.
Implant Size and Shape
The choice of implant size and shape can impact the risk of malposition. Larger implants or implants with a significant projection may exert more pressure on the surrounding tissues, increasing the likelihood of displacement. Additionally, certain implant shapes, such as highly cohesive anatomical implants, may require precise positioning to avoid malposition.
Postoperative Factors
Factors that occur after surgery can contribute to implant malposition. These may include inadequate support during the healing process, inadequate use of postoperative garments or bras, trauma to the chest area, excessive physical activity or strain, or failure to follow postoperative instructions.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture, the abnormal tightening of the scar tissue capsule around the implant, can contribute to implant malposition. The contracted capsule can push the implant out of its desired position, leading to malposition.
It is important to get a breast implant health check, this will allow us to assess your individual circumstances and the best treatment options.
Breast Implant malposition Treatment
The treatment for breast implant malposition depends on the specific type and severity of the malposition. It’s essential to book a health check where we can evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
The specific treatment approach will be tailored to your individual needs and may involve a combination of techniques to address the malposition effectively.
Here are some common approaches used to address implant malposition:
Non-Surgical Approaches
Breast Implant Displacement Exercises:
In some cases, your surgeon may recommend specific exercises or massage techniques to help reposition the implants. These exercises aim to stretch the surrounding tissues, promote implant descent, and improve symmetry.
Supportive Garments:
Wearing supportive bras or garments can provide additional support to the breasts and help encourage proper implant positioning. Your surgeon may recommend a specific type of bra or garment to address your malposition concerns.
Breast Revision Surgery:
If non-surgical approaches do not effectively address the implant malposition, revision surgery may be necessary. The specific surgical technique will depend on the type of malposition present. Some common surgical techniques used to treat implant malposition include:
Capsulorrhaphy:
This procedure involves modifying the scar tissue capsule to reposition and secure the implant in the desired position. The capsule may be tightened, reshaped, or reconstructed to achieve proper implant placement.
Capsular Contracture
In cases of severe malposition or capsular contracture, the scar tissue capsule may need to be partially or entirely removed. This allows for the creation of a new pocket or placement of a new implant to achieve better positioning.
Internal Suturing
Internal sutures can be used to secure the implant in the desired position and prevent further malposition.
Pocket Adjustment
The surgical pocket around the implant may be adjusted or recreated to improve implant positioning and symmetry.
Breast Implant Exchange
In some cases, changing to a different implant size, shape, or type may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.
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