Double Bubble Deformity
Double Bubble Deformity Chicago
Double bubble deformity is an unlikely surgical complication that may occur after breast augmentation. This issue can be corrected with breast revision surgery.
What Is Double Bubble Deformity?
Double bubble deformity can manifest in one of two ways. Sometimes after breast augmentation, a ridge of breast tissue develops below the nipple. This tissue appears to rest on top of the implant, and it may look as though the breast crease has risen up the breast or that the implant has slipped below the breast crease. Other times, the breast implant may be pulled upward in the breast pocket by muscle movement, causing the breast tissue below it to appear loose as though it is falling off the implant. In both cases, the appearance of two bubbles may form, hence the name “double bubble deformity.” Double bubble deformity is sometimes associated with capsular contracture and, therefore, may cause pain in the affected breast.
Double Bubble Deformity
Frequently Asked Questions
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Am I at Risk of Developing Double Bubble Deformity?
If you have breast implants, your risk of double bubble deformity is typically less than four percent. Your risk may be higher than average if you have an acutely defined breast crease, tight or constricted lower breast tissue, or a short distance between your nipple-areolar complex and breast crease. The risk is also higher for women who have age-related breast sagging, larger implants, or who chose a transaxillary or transumbilical incision for their breast augmentation procedure. Dr. Schlechter does not offer the transumbilical incision for breast augmentation, as it has a greater potential for causing surgical complications such as double bubble deformity.
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How Do I Know If I Have Double Bubble Deformity?
Double bubble deformity can be identified by the observation of two bubbles in the lower breast. There may be a noticeable crease with additional breast tissue beneath it, or the breast tissue may appear to sag over the implant as though it is falling off. These symptoms may be associated with capsular contracture, including pain or hardening of the breast. Dr. Schlechter can identify double bubble deformity for you with an in-person examination.
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How Can Breast Revision Surgery Help Me?
Breast revision surgery can correct double bubble deformity. Dr. Schlechter will loosen the breast pocket and surgically remove hardened scar tissue to correct capsular contracture. He will also adjust the breast pocket as needed, replace and relocate the implant, and tighten the breast tissue so that it is secure around the implant. If necessary, he will also exchange the opposite-side implant to improve the aesthetic results. Dr. Schlechter will ensure that the breast pockets and breast tissues are well-positioned to reduce the risk of implant movement in the future.
