Breast implants are a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that can enhance the size and shape of the breasts. However, some women may experience a flattening or distortion of their breast implants when they lay down. This can be a frustrating and concerning problem, but it is important to understand the reasons why implants go flat when you lay down, as well as the treatment options that are available.
Implant Malposition
Implant malposition is one of the most common reasons why implants go flat when you lay down. This occurs when the implant shifts or moves out of its intended position, causing the breast to appear distorted or uneven. Implant malposition can occur for several reasons, including:
Surgical error: If the implant is not placed correctly during surgery, it may shift or move over time. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including inadequate pocket creation, improper implant sizing, or poor tissue support.
Capsular contracture: Capsular contracture is a condition in which the scar tissue around the implant becomes thick and hard, causing the implant to move or shift. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including infection, hematoma, or implant rupture.
Implant size: If the implant is too large or heavy for the breast tissue, it may shift or move when you lay down. This can be exacerbated by other factors, such as poor tissue support or inadequate pocket creation.
Implant placement: If the implant is placed above the muscle, it may shift or move more easily than if it is placed below the muscle. This is because the muscle provides additional support and stability to the implant.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is another common reason why implants go flat when you lay down. This occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant becomes thick and hard, causing the implant to feel firm or distorted. Capsular contracture can occur for several reasons, including:
Infection: If the implant becomes infected, it can trigger an inflammatory response that leads to the formation of thick scar tissue. This can cause the implant to feel firm or distorted, and may contribute to implant malposition.
Hematoma: If there is bleeding around the implant, it can cause the formation of thick scar tissue. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including surgical trauma or injury.
Implant rupture: If the implant ruptures, it can trigger an inflammatory response that leads to the formation of thick scar tissue. This can cause the implant to feel firm or distorted, and may contribute to implant malposition.
Implant contamination: If the implant is contaminated during surgery, it can increase the risk of capsular contracture. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor surgical technique or inadequate sterilization.
Other Factors
In addition to implant malposition and capsular contracture, there are several other factors that can cause implants to go flat when you lay down. These include:
Implant type: Some types of implants, such as saline implants, are more prone to flattening or distortion than others. This is because they are more susceptible to changes in volume due to changes in pressure or temperature.
Implant age: Over time, breast implants can lose their shape or become less resilient, which can cause them to flatten or distort when you lay down. This is more common with older implants, or implants that have been in place for a long period of time.
Breast tissue: If you have very little breast tissue, it may be more difficult to achieve a natural-looking result with breast implants. This is because there is less tissue to support the implant, which can make it more prone to shifting or moving.
Weight changes: If you gain or lose weight, it can affect the appearance of your breast implants. This is because changes in weight can cause changes in the distribution of fat and tissue in the breast, which can affect the way the implant sits.
Sleeping position: If you sleep on your stomach or side, it can cause your breast implants to shift or move. This is because the weight of your body can put pressure on the implant, causing it to flatten or distort.
Treatment Options
If your implants go flat when you lay down, there are several treatment options available. These include:
Implant revision surgery: If the implant has shifted or moved, it may be necessary to undergo revision surgery to reposition the implant. This can involve adjusting the pocket, replacing the implant, or using additional support materials to stabilize the implant.
Capsulectomy: If you have capsular contracture, your surgeon may recommend a capsulectomy, which involves removing the scar tissue around the implant. This can help to improve the appearance of the breast and reduce the risk of implant malposition.
Implant replacement: If the implant is old or has ruptured, it may be necessary to replace it with a new implant. This can help to restore the shape and volume of the breast, and reduce the risk of implant malposition.
Fat grafting: If you have very little breast tissue, your surgeon may recommend fat grafting to add volume and improve the appearance of your breasts. This involves removing fat from another area of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and using it to augment the breast tissue.
Sleeping position modification: If your implants shift or move when you lay down, your surgeon may recommend modifying your sleeping position to reduce the risk of implant malposition. This may involve sleeping on your back or using supportive pillows to help distribute the weight of your body more evenly.
Conclusion
Implant malposition and capsular contracture are two of the most common reasons why implants go flat when you lay down. However, there are several other factors that can contribute to this problem, including implant type, breast tissue, and weight changes. If you are experiencing flattening or distortion of your breast implants when you lay down, it is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. They can evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of treatment to help you achieve the best possible outcome. With the right treatment, you can restore the shape and volume of your breasts and feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin.
