02 Apr 2025
A breast implant is one of the most predictable methods for augmenting your native breast volume. However, the benefits of breast augmentation extend far beyond just size. In the hands of an experienced breast surgery expert such as myself, this is a procedure to restore or create proper proportion throughout your whole body. When your breasts are the right size and shape, it may make your waist look smaller and your abdomen appear more lifted and lean. A breast implant can also improve asymmetry and can address genetic conditions such as tuberous breasts. While the benefits are numerous, there are issues, such as rippling, that can occur, especially in certain patients. Here is a brief primer on how breast implant rippling happens and what you can do to avoid this issue.
What is Breast Implant Rippling?
A breast implant can be filled with either:
- Saline
- Silicone gel
Both types of fill are encased in a silicone shell which is what gives the breast implant structure. Rippling is when the surface of your implant develops wrinkles or creases that are visible, palpable to the touch or both. Since the goal of a breast augmentation is to increase volume in a way that looks as natural as possible, rippling is not something that either of us want.
Underlying Causes of Implant Rippling
There are a number of potential underlying causes for implant rippling such as:
- Being very thin
- Choosing a large breast implant
- Placing an implant above vs. below the muscle
- Weight fluctuations
In addition, saline implants have a tendency to ripple more than silicone, especially if they are under filled. Scar tissue may also be a factor as it can pull on the implant, causing the surface to crease. This is called capsular contracture. In my opinion, the single best way to prevent your breast implants from rippling is to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area with extensive breast surgery
experience and have appropriate surgical planning. Reducing your risk of rippling begins in the consultation, long before an implant is every placed in your body.
Breast Augmentation Consultation in Boston
Scheduling an in-person consultation is honestly the best thing you can do to ensure a long-lasting, exemplary result. Any aesthetic procedure must be the right one for your unique anatomy. This is especially true with breast implants. The photo of your favorite influencer or cousin who just had a breast augmentation can be a great reference, but the size, shape and fill implant that worked for someone else may not be the right choice for you. During our meeting, I will not just listen to what bothers you about your physique and inquire into your medical history. I will also perform an in depth physical exam. If you are very thin, you need to be aware that your risk of rippling is going to be higher. Having said that, there are things that we can do to diminish this from happening such as fat grafting to the breast assuming that you have enough fat elsewhere on the body to provide camouflage. I am a firm believer in educating my patients on any potential procedure downsides and then letting you make the best decision for you.
To find out more about a breast augmentation, or any other surgical or non-surgical procedure with Dr. Sean Doherty at Boston Center for Plastic Surgery, contact us today or call (617) 450-0070 to schedule a consultation.
