If you have had consultations for breast augmentation, most likely you have heard or seen a double bubble. Double bubble is commonly referred to when either the breast implant appears to be separated from the implant and the native breast tissue is below the implant. Bottoming out is when the implant drops below the native breast fold. Bottoming out creates more fullness below the nipple then behind it leading to an unfavorable breast shape.
Double bubble is a rare surgical complication that may occur following breast augmentation. If you have double bubble, breast implant revision surgery with Dr. Albright, board-certified plastic surgeon in San Antonio, can restore your breasts and yield a more natural breast shape.
This is when the breast implant is above the native breast fold. Often you can tell in photos as there is a slight indention on the breast showing which shows the demarcation between the breast implant and the native breast tissue. This creates the appearance the "second bubble" with the empty sac of skin beneath the implant. In some cases this may be indicative of capsular contracture which may be the reason the breast implant did not full drop into the breast fold.
Women who have breast augmentation typically have about a 2-4% risk of double bubble deformity. Typically women who have a constricted lower pole of their breast or a shorter distance from the lower breast fold to nipple. In these cases, it is more difficult for the breast to support the implant (especially with larger implants) and a double bubble might result. Selective a transaxillary or transumbilical breast augmentation might also increase the risk as the plastic surgeon has a more limited ability to place the implant. Natural aging of the breast can also lead to double bubble as the breast tissue sags off the implant and is noticeable underneath the implant.
Dr. Albright, plastic surgery in San Antonio, can perform breast implant revision surgery to correct your double bubble deformity. In some cases, it may be as simple as fat grafting into the breast. In other cases, breast implant removal with replacement with smaller implants. In some cases, a breast lift (including a wedge excision) may be needed to minimize implant movement in the future. It is best to have several consultation to choose the best plastic surgeon and the best plan for you!
