After having a lift and augmentation, my breasts are really high, sitting in my armpits, and have an extremely unnatural shape on top with sharp angles. I have very strong pec muscles and am concerned that they are distorting the implants. Could this be the case? If not, what could be causing these problems? Will they resolve on their own, or should I return to my surgeon for a correction?
If the surgery was recent, the implants are likely too high and have not yet "settled". But if the implants are becoming too high as a delayed effect, the patient may be experiencing a capsular contracture and needs to be evaluated by her local board-certified plastic surgeon.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You didn't say how long ago your surgery was. It takes months for swelling to resolve and the implants to settle. You should be following up with your surgeon.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Your problem could be from one of these problems:
-pec was not released along the lower part of your breasts, thereby pushing the implants up (but it is not a matter of them being strong, per se)
-the implants were too big; breasts fill from the bottom up and so that could cause upper bulging
-the pocket was underdissected in the upper area
-the pocket was not low enough so the implant is pushed up
-there is scar tissue around the implants contracting around them
-you have an under-filled implant and the envelope is still loose, allowing the implant to fold and "knuckle," thereby creating the sharp angles
You should show this to your surgeon and get his/her opinion about it.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You should always relay your concerns to your surgeon, but what you are describing is pretty typical for submuscular implants within the first 1-3 months as you heal and drop and fluff. Good luck!
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Thank you for your question. Breast implants may appear too high, boxy, and unnatural in the early stages of postoperative healing. This is especially true if you have strong pectoral muscles or if the implant was placed completely beneath the muscle. Not wearing a bra, gentle downward massage, wearing a compression strap or band above the superior border of the implant, and taking a leucotriene inhibitor such as Singular may help improve the implant position and breast shape over time. If it's early in the healing process, don't worry. Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Take care.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Thank you for your question.
When was your surgery? If it was within a month or two, then it is too early to evaluate the outcome of the procedure performed. This is best done many months from now. At this point, I would suggest: rest, recovery, and patience. Also, always keep your communication open with your surgeon. Best wishes.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The leaner and more muscular a patient is, the more this appearance is noted right after surgery. Give it 6 weeks. If you still have this look after 6 weeks, definitely follow up with your surgeon. He or she might give you a strap to wear on top of your pec muscles to encourage the implants to settle in the pocket. If this doesn't work, you might need a pocket revision. Keep in touch with your surgeon. Best of luck.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Unfortunately, you would need to be examined. Muscles rarely play a role in breast shape, however. If it is any time earlier than 3 months since your surgery, you should not be too concerned about their appearance, unless they are bizarre or asymmetric. Best of luck.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You should return to your original surgeon to discuss what is going on. There are many options to address your concerns, and your plastic surgeon will be able to go over all that suite you and your needs. Best of luck!
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It could be a combination, so I would return and ask your PS.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is possible. However, your surgeon will explain best what is going on, as he knows your surgical experience and where he placed the implants.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Breast implants placed under the muscle will initially look high and compressed. The pectoral muscles will go into spasm and hold onto the implants. Larger, stronger pec muscles will appear more full when in spasm. As the muscles relax, the implants will drop and the breasts will soften and assume the shape of the implants.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I am sure your strong pect muscles may be contributing to this. Time will help, and wearing a breast strap across the top of your breasts will help too.
Published on Jul 11, 2012