Breast implants are long lasting, but they are not designed to stay in the exact same position forever. Over time, natural aging, changes in skin elasticity, capsular changes, and gravity can cause implants to shift, drop, or sit differently on the chest. When this happens, the breasts may appear asymmetrical, uneven, or distorted. Breast implant revision surgery can correct these concerns and restore a balanced, natural appearance. At Richards Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Richards specializes in complex breast revisions and uses advanced techniques to reposition implants and refine breast contour.
Why Do Breast Implants Shift?
Breast implants can shift for several reasons, and understanding these factors helps determine the appropriate revision technique.
Loosening of the Implant Pocket
The implant sits inside a surgically created pocket. Over time, this pocket can stretch due to aging, weight fluctuations, genetics, or large implant sizes. A stretched pocket may allow implants to drift outward, downward, or toward the armpit.
Skin and Tissue Changes
Skin naturally loses elasticity with age. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss can also thin breast tissue and loosen support structures. When tissue weakens, the implant may no longer sit firmly in place.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens or hardens. This can distort implant position, cause a breast to look higher than the other, and create discomfort.
Implant Bottoming Out
Bottoming out happens when the lower breast tissue stretches and the implant drops too low on the chest, causing the nipple to appear too high. This is often related to weak or thin lower pole tissue.
Symmastia
Symmastia, sometimes called “uniboob,” occurs when implants shift toward the center of the chest due to over-dissection or weakened tissue between the breasts. Revision surgery can correct this separation.
Natural Aging and Gravity
Even without complications, gravity gradually changes breast shape. Over time, the implant may settle lower, even with perfectly executed original surgery.
Signs Your Implants Have Shifted
You may notice:
• One breast sitting higher or lower than the other
• Implants drifting outward or toward the armpits
• Cleavage that looks unnatural or too wide
• Nipples pointing downward or outward
• Breasts looking deflated or bottomed out
• Rippling or visibility of implant edges
If any of these changes occur, a revision consultation can help determine the cause and best treatment approach.
How Breast Revision Surgery Fixes Implant Shifting
Revision surgery is highly customized. Dr. Richards evaluates the breast tissue, pocket integrity, implant type, and overall anatomy to determine the optimal solution.
Pocket Repair or Reconstruction
The most common correction involves tightening or reshaping the implant pocket. This may include internal sutures or reinforcement materials to hold the implant in the correct position.
Changing Implant Type or Size
Switching to a more cohesive silicone gel implant or adjusting the size can improve stability and reduce future movement. Smaller or anatomically appropriate implants may reduce downward pressure on weakened tissues.
Using Supporting Mesh or Acellular Dermal Matrix
For patients with weaker tissue, Dr. Richards may use internal support materials to strengthen the pocket and prevent future shifting.
Correcting Capsular Contracture
If capsular contracture is the cause, removing or releasing the capsule is necessary to restore proper implant position.
Addressing Bottoming Out or Symmastia
Specific techniques rebuild internal support and reposition the implants for balanced, natural symmetry.
What Results Can You Expect After Revision?
Revision typically restores symmetry, improves breast shape, corrects implant placement, and enhances overall appearance. Patients often feel more comfortable and confident once the implants are properly positioned. Dr. Richards focuses on achieving natural, long-lasting results with improved support to prevent future shifting.
Contact Las Vegas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Richards to Schedule a Consultation
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.