What Does Rippling in Breast Implants Mean?
A rippling breast implant is a common complication of breast augmentation. It occurs when the breast implant wrinkles to a point where the patient can see or feel it. What causes rippling in breast implants, and what are the solutions for treatment? This article provides information on breast implant rippling; its causes, signs and potential solutions. The aim is to help you make informed decisions about managing or preventing rippling. This includes exploring alternative options such as breast implant removal.
Breast Implant Ripple Causes
Breast implant ripples can be caused by one or a combination of several factors.
The most common causes are:
1. Implant Type
The type of implant used determines whether your implant ripples. For instance, silicone implants are known for reducing the risk of visible wrinkles or ripples. In contrast, saline breast implant rippling is more common.
2. Implant Placement
Besides the type of implant, the placement procedure can affect the risk of rippling. When the implants are placed in a subglandular position, they have less natural tissue coverage, which causes the ripple’s visibility to be more apparent. On the other hand, breast implants under the muscle are provided with more coverage, which minimizes rippling.
3. After Mastectomy
Breast implant rippling after mastectomy often time occurs due to scar capsular contractures around the breast implant. If possible, the breast implant with fat grafting method would be a more advantageous treatment in this situation.
4. After Pregnancy
Breast implant rippling after pregnancy is a common story due to weight loss and breastfeeding. Pregnancy will also often affect the appearance of breast implants and may become bothersome. Because of this, many women will seek out for a breast implant revision.
5. Thin Skin and Tissue
Sometimes, the risk of rippling is determined by skin and tissue. Breast implants require natural padding to conceal the implant’s irregularities and prevent ripples. The patient is more susceptible to rippling when the skin is too thin and the breast tissue is minimal.
6. Weight Loss
Breast implant rippling after weight loss is common. This will happen when there is significant weight loss after placement. The loss, in this instance, may be the cause of changes in breast volume and skin elasticity.
Signs You Have Breast Implant Rippling
Common signs of rippling breast implants are visible wrinkles, ridges and waves on the surface of the breasts. The ripples may change in appearance as you lean forward or change positions. In other cases where the ripples are more pronounced, they can be felt by touching. While breast rippling may not present a medical problem, it may cause self-consciousness and dissatisfaction with the appearance of the breasts. If not addressed, rippling can potentially impact your self-esteem.
Solutions for Breast Implant Rippling
If you have breast implant rippling, there is no need to worry. Various solutions can enhance the overall appearance of the breasts.
Below are three solutions:
1. Implant Revision
An implant revision procedure refers to the replacement of existing implants with a different type. For instance, saline breast implants can be switched to silicone breast implants, which have a lower risk of rippling. In implant revision, textured implants can be used to promote tissue adherence and reduce the visibility of rippling.
2. Implant Placement Adjustment
Instead of replacing the implants completely, your surgeon may recommend repositioning. If the implants were placed in the subglandular position earlier, they could be moved to under the muscle. The submuscular placement provides natural padding and additional tissue coverage and support that minimize the visibility of rippling.
3. Breast Implant Removal and Lift
As an alternative, the breast implants can be removed altogether. Breast implant removal restores the natural appearance; which could result in a more youthful shape. However, in some cases, the breasts may sag after the removal procedure. The surgeon may simultaneously perform a breast lift procedure to achieve desirable breast aesthetics.
Finding the Best Surgeon for Implant Removal in Miami
Breast implant rippling can occur for various reasons. Understanding the potential causes and available solutions is vital in making a decision. However, if you are experiencing rippling, consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon will provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and desired goals. To get the best breast rippling solutions, including implant removal, contact Dr. Mendieta, the best surgeon for implant removal in Miami. Call 305-860-0717 to schedule a consultation or simply contact us online.