Common sensations and signs of a flipped implant
A flipped breast implant, also known as implant malrotation, occurs when the implant turns over inside the breast pocket. For round implants, this may not cause a noticeable change in breast shape, as they are symmetrical. However, with teardrop-shaped or anatomical implants, the effect on breast contour is often very apparent. The tactile sensation can also differ significantly depending on the implant type and surrounding tissue.
How the sensation can vary by implant type
Teardrop-shaped implants
With teardrop or anatomical implants, the effects of a flip are typically more distinct and easier to identify through both sight and touch.
- A prominent ridge: You may feel a distinct, firm ridge or edge of the implant under the skin where it is not supposed to be. This is because the flatter back side of the implant has rotated to the front.
- Unusual contour: The breast may feel misshapen or have a distorted contour. The natural-looking slope of the breast may be replaced by a flatter, squarer appearance at the top, as the implant's anatomical shape is no longer correctly aligned.
- Visible rippling or wrinkling: For thinner patients, the texture or wrinkles of the implant may become more visible or palpable beneath the skin, especially if the flatter, textured back side is now facing outwards.
Round implants
Round implants are more difficult to detect when flipped, as their shape is symmetrical. However, a malrotation can still sometimes be felt.
- Feeling of displacement: While the shape may not change, you might still feel a general sense of displacement or that the breast feels different to the touch than it did before.
- Sensation of movement: Some patients report a strange "swooshing" or shifting sensation, particularly when bending over or moving vigorously.
- Increased awareness: The implant may simply feel more present or noticeable than usual, even without significant pain.
Associated visual signs
In addition to how it feels, a flipped implant often presents with obvious visual cues, though this depends on the implant type.
- Asymmetry: One breast may appear noticeably different in size, shape, or projection compared to the other. A breast with a flipped implant may appear flatter or less full than its counterpart.
- Altered nipple position: The implant's movement can affect the nipple's alignment. Your nipples may point in different directions or sit unusually high or low on the breast mound.
- Strange breast contour: For anatomical implants, the characteristic teardrop shape will be lost, resulting in a square, flat, or unnatural-looking breast contour.
What to do if you suspect an implant has flipped
If you have any suspicion that your implant has flipped, it is crucial to contact your plastic surgeon for an evaluation. While a flipped implant is generally not considered an emergency, it should be addressed to prevent long-term issues and restore the desired cosmetic outcome. Your surgeon will perform a physical exam and may recommend imaging studies like an ultrasound or MRI to confirm the implant's exact position.
- Manual correction: In some cases, a plastic surgeon may be able to manually manipulate the implant back into the correct position. This is more likely if the implant flips occasionally and the breast pocket has not tightened significantly.
- Surgical intervention: If the flipping is persistent, a revision surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves re-entering the breast pocket, repositioning the implant, and potentially tightening the pocket to prevent future rotation.
Factors that increase the risk of implant flipping
Certain factors can make implant malrotation more likely. Understanding these can help you better identify potential causes.
Implant characteristics
- Implant shape: Anatomical (teardrop) implants are more prone to flipping than round implants, as they have a specific orientation that can be disrupted.
- Implant surface: Smooth-shelled implants are more susceptible to rotation compared to textured implants, which are designed to grip the surrounding tissue and stay in place.
- Pocket size: If the surgical pocket created for the implant is too large, it can leave enough space for the implant to move and rotate freely.
Post-surgical activities
- Vigorous exercise: Intense physical activity, especially in the early healing stages, can increase the risk of an implant turning. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions is critical.
- Trauma: A direct blow to the chest or a severe impact can dislodge an implant from its proper position.
Other contributing factors
- Capsular contracture: This is a condition where scar tissue tightens around the implant. If it develops unevenly, it can cause the implant to twist or flip.
- Poor implant placement: If the implant was not correctly positioned during the initial surgery, it may be more likely to move later.
Comparison of symptoms between different implant types
| Feature | Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants | Round Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Visible Asymmetry | Highly noticeable, with a distorted or flattened breast shape. | Unlikely to be visible unless accompanied by other issues, like capsular contracture. |
| Palpable Ridge/Edge | Common to feel the implant's flat back edge under the skin. | Rare to feel a distinct edge, but may feel generally different to the touch. |
| Swooshing Sensation | Can occur, particularly during bending or movement. | Possible, but more likely a general feeling of instability. |
| Pain | Can cause discomfort if it presses on surrounding tissue abnormally. | Often asymptomatic and rarely painful on its own. |
| Diagnosis Method | Often diagnosed via physical exam and visual inspection, confirmed with imaging. | Primarily diagnosed through imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI. |
Conclusion: recognizing the signs of implant malrotation
While the feeling of a flipped implant can differ based on the type of implant, the overarching theme is a sense of change. Whether it's a visible distortion, a palpable ridge, or a general feeling of discomfort, recognizing these changes is the first step towards a solution. It's important to remember that a flipped implant is a manageable complication and not typically a serious health risk. Open communication with your plastic surgeon and following their guidance for post-operative care are key to ensuring a successful and comfortable recovery. For more information on breast implant safety and risks, refer to the FDA's official resource.
Remember, if you suspect your implant has flipped, your plastic surgeon is the best resource for accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.
