Introduction:
Causes of breast implant movement towards the armpit:
There are several factors that can contribute to the movement of breast implants towards the armpit after surgery. Firstly, inadequate pocket creation during the surgery can allow the implant to shift. Secondly, implant size and texture can also play a role, with larger and smooth-surfaced implants being more prone to displacement. Additionally, weak pectoral muscles, improper implant positioning, or capsular contracture can further increase the risk of implant movement.Treatment options for breast implant movement towards the armpit:
When breast implants shift towards the armpit, patients may experience discomfort and cosmetic concerns. The treatment approach will depend on the severity of the displacement and the patient's specific circumstances. Non-surgical options include wearing a supportive bra or using specialized garments to help reposition the implants. However, if these conservative measures fail to show improvement, surgical intervention may be required. Revision surgery involves repositioning the implants, tightening the breast implant pocket, or using acellular dermal matrix to reinforce the pocket support.Preventive measures for breast implant movement towards the armpit:
While the risk of breast implant displacement cannot be completely eliminated, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the likelihood of this complication. Firstly, choosing an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation is crucial. Proper surgical technique, including meticulous pocket creation, can significantly reduce the chances of implant migration. Furthermore, selecting an appropriate implant size and texture, as well as placing the implants in the correct position, can aid in preventing armpit displacement. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments and adherence to post-operative instructions can allow early detection and management of any potential complications.Conclusion:
Breast implant movement towards the armpit is a known complication of breast augmentation surgery. Understanding the various causes, treatment options, and preventive measures for this condition is important for both plastic surgeons and patients. By considering the factors that contribute to implant displacement, adopting appropriate interventions when needed, and maintaining a close doctor-patient relationship, successful outcomes can be achieved in breast augmentation surgeries.References:
1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2019). Breast Augmentation. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation 2. Maxwell, G. P., Van Natta, B. W., Bengtson, B. P., Murphy, D. K., Matarasso, A., and the Mentor and Allergan Core Study Groups. (2012). Ten-year results from the Natrelle 410 anatomical form-stable silicone breast implant core study. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 32(6), 709-717. 3. Spear, S. L., Murphy, D. K., Slicton, A., and Walker, P. S. (2007). Inamed Silicone Breast Implant U.S. Study Group. Inamed silicone breast implant core study results at 6 years. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 120(7 Suppl 1), 8S-16S.
