Breast implants can provide beautiful, long-lasting results, but over time, some patients may notice visible rippling or wrinkling on the surface of their breasts. This can affect the overall look and feel of the results, especially in patients with thin skin or minimal natural breast tissue. For those who are bothered by this change, breast revision surgery offers several effective solutions to restore a smooth, natural appearance. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bryson Richards provides breast revision surgery to patients in Las Vegas, NV, and surrounding locations.
What Is Rippling and Why Does It Happen?
Implant rippling refers to visible folds or wrinkles in the implant shell that can be seen or felt through the skin. While some degree of wrinkling is normal with all implants, it becomes a cosmetic concern when it is obvious on the surface of the breast.
Common causes include:
-
Thin breast tissue – Less tissue coverage makes ripples more noticeable.
-
Saline implants – These are more prone to rippling compared to silicone gel implants.
-
Implant placement – Implants placed over the muscle (subglandular) can show rippling more easily than those placed under the muscle.
-
Implant size and fill volume – Underfilled saline implants or large implants with thin coverage may be more likely to ripple.
-
Weight loss – Losing weight can reduce tissue thickness, making rippling more visible.
-
Aging – Natural loss of skin elasticity and tissue volume over time can reveal implant edges.
Can Breast Revision Correct Rippling?
Yes—breast revision surgery is often the best solution for noticeable implant rippling or wrinkling. A skilled plastic surgeon can address the underlying cause and choose the right surgical approach to smooth the breast surface.
Surgical Options for Correcting Rippling
The specific technique used will depend on your anatomy, implant type, and personal goals. Common strategies include:
-
Implant Replacement with Silicone Gel
Switching from saline to silicone implants can greatly reduce rippling. Silicone gel is thicker and more cohesive, making folds less visible. -
Changing Implant Placement
Moving implants from over the muscle to under the muscle (submuscular placement) provides more tissue coverage and can hide ripples. -
Using a Larger or Different Implant Shape
Sometimes a slightly larger implant or one with a different profile can stretch the skin enough to smooth out wrinkles. -
Fat Grafting (Fat Transfer)
Harvesting fat from another area of your body and injecting it over the implant can add a layer of padding to mask rippling. -
Using Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM)
ADM, such as AlloDerm® or GalaFLEX®, acts as an internal support layer to cover the implant and reduce visible edges.
When Rippling May Not Be Fully Correctable
In some patients with very thin skin or extreme weight loss, rippling may be improved but not completely eliminated. Setting realistic expectations during your consultation is important to ensure satisfaction with the results.
Recovery After Breast Revision for Rippling
Recovery varies depending on the type of revision performed. For example:
-
Implant exchange only: Similar downtime to your initial augmentation (about 1–2 weeks before resuming light activity).
-
Fat grafting or ADM use: May involve additional healing from donor sites and longer swelling resolution.
-
Implant pocket change: Can require a few extra weeks for full recovery.
Most patients notice immediate improvement in rippling after surgery, though final results become more visible as swelling decreases over the following months.
Preventing Rippling in the Future
While no implant is completely immune to rippling, certain choices can lower the risk:
-
Choosing silicone gel implants over saline.
-
Opting for submuscular placement when possible.
-
Avoiding overly large implants that stretch the skin excessively.
-
Maintaining a stable weight to preserve tissue thickness.
FAQs About Breast Revision for Rippling
Will rippling come back after revision?
It’s possible, especially if you have thin tissue or experience weight loss. However, proper implant selection and placement can minimize the risk.
Is silicone always better than saline for rippling?
In most cases, yes. Silicone’s cohesive gel fills out the implant shell more completely, reducing visible folds.
Can fat transfer alone fix rippling?
It can help camouflage ripples, but combining fat transfer with implant exchange often produces the best results.
Is breast revision more painful than the first surgery?
Not usually. Many patients find recovery from revision to be similar or easier than their initial augmentation.
Does insurance cover breast revision for rippling?
Typically no, since it is considered cosmetic unless rippling is causing medical issues.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Revision to Fix Rippling?
You may be a good candidate if you:
-
Notice visible implant edges or wrinkles that bother you.
-
Have thin skin or lost volume due to aging or weight loss.
-
Are healthy, at a stable weight, and a non-smoker.
-
Have realistic expectations for improvement.
Contact Us
If implant rippling or wrinkling is keeping you from feeling confident in your results, breast revision surgery can help smooth and restore your breast appearance. Our experienced team will evaluate your unique needs and create a personalized plan to help you achieve a natural, beautiful contour. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
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.