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Are Your Breast Implants Bottoming Out?

Posted February 22, 2023 in Breast Augmentation, Breast Implant

3 Minute Read: 

It’s no surprise that breast augmentation is still one of the most popular and satisfying cosmetic procedures in the world since the procedure enhances breast size and shape and provides the kind of curves many women want. 

A woman in a white bra checks her breasts.

Breast implants are a great way to recontour a woman’s upper body; however, complications can develop. Bottoming out is the term used when one or both implants drop from their original position and fall too low on the chest. The nipple may appear abnormally high and the breast(s) may sag or look flattened. This is because the implant has fallen to the lower pole of the breast.

Besides creating an unnatural appearance, bottoming can cause discomfort, leaving many women in need of a revision procedure.

Why Do Breast Implants Sometimes Bottom Out?

Implants can bottom out due to a number of factors:

  • Large implants being placed without adequate natural breast tissue coverage
  • The surgeon making the breast pocket too big
  • Having weak or insufficient natural breast tissue and skin elasticity 
  • Not receiving a breast lift for sagging breasts before implants are placed 
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight fluctuations 
  • Engaging in activities like running, jumping on a trampoline, horseback riding, etc., that cause breasts to bounce or move excessively

In most cases, bottoming out is a result of poor surgical technique. If the implants are not adequately supported, the implant can slip out of place. 

In some cases, the problem may be exacerbated by weight gain or aging, since the skin and tissue will lose elasticity over time.

How Do I Know If My Breast Implants Are Bottoming Out?

There are a few signs that your implants may be experiencing bottoming out. If you notice a change in the appearance of your breasts, such as a flattened or sagging look, or if your nipples are positioned higher than usual, it could be a sign of bottoming out. 

If you experience discomfort or pain in your breasts or your implants feel like they are slipping out of place, it is essential to contact your plastic surgeon to find out how the problem can be corrected. 

How Can I Fix My Bottoming Out Breast Implants?

Treatment for bottoming out of breast implants typically involves breast revision surgery. It’s important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform your breast augmentation and any revision surgeries.

A qualified and experienced surgeon will fully understand why your implant(s) bottomed out and use the best techniques to prevent it from happening again. This secondary breast surgery may include one or more of the following: 

  • Repositioning the implant and reinforcing the surrounding tissue 
  • Exchanging the implants if they are too large
  • Placing the implant under the muscle 
  • Performing a breast lift during the revision surgery 

How Can I Prevent My Breast Implants From Bottoming Out?

The importance of choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon can not be overemphasized. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will advise you of your best options according to your anatomy and the amount of natural breast tissue you have. They will know how to place the implant properly to help prevent bottoming out while delivering excellent results.

Some of their recommendations may include:

  • Having a breast lift before receiving implants
  • Choosing submuscular placement
  • Choosing an appropriate implant size
  • Wearing a support bra for the first year after breast augmentation
  • Refraining from intense bouncing, especially soon after receiving breast implants 

Breast Revision in Buffalo, NY | Correct Bottoming Out and Other Breast Implant Complications

Dr. Todd Koch is a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who performs breast revision in Buffalo, New York

Dr. Koch employs several techniques to ensure the best breast augmentation results and correct complications like bottoming out. One such method is using a synthetic mesh scaffold to support the implant and surrounding tissue (GalaFLEX®). 

Prompt treatment can help prevent further complications, restore the ideal shape of your breasts, reduce related anxiety, and eliminate discomfort.  

If you suspect your breast implants are bottoming out, call our Buffalo office at 716-631-1222 as soon as possible to schedule a consultation with Dr. Koch.