What Is Pocket Deformity?
August 2, 2023
Written By Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS
Causes and Solutions for a Breast Implant Complication
Breast augmentation is a very sought-after plastic surgery procedure and most patients are satisfied with their results. However, it is important to understand that breast implant complications can occur. Being informed about these complications, their causes, and potential solutions is essential for anyone considering breast augmentation surgery or already living with implants. In this blog, we will focus on one specific complication known as pocket or animation deformity, examining its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Minnesota Plastic Surgeon Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz has garnered immense praise for his exceptional skill in performing breast implant surgeries. His expertise in this intricate procedure has consistently led to outstanding results, leaving his patients thoroughly satisfied with their new appearance. Notably, Dr. Joe’s unwavering commitment to patient care goes beyond the operating table; he is known for his meticulous post-operative guidance, which helps patients avoid potential complications.
Breast Augmentation Potential Complications
When deciding to undergo breast augmentation, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and complications. When selecting a surgeon, it is crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures. This can help minimize the risk of complications and ensure a successful outcome. However, even with the best care and surgical expertise, complications can still arise. By understanding these complications, you can be better prepared to face them should they occur and work with your surgeon to develop a plan for resolving them.
Breast implant complications can range from mild to severe, with varying impacts on a patient’s health and well-being. Some complications, such as infectionor significant bleeding (hematoma), require immediate attention and intervention. Others, like pocket deformity, may develop gradually over time and require a more nuanced approach to diagnosis and treatment. In each case, it is important to maintain open communication with your surgeon, report any concerns or symptoms, and follow their guidance on the appropriate course of action.
What is Animation Deformity?
Animation deformity, also known as dynamic breast deformity or “window-shading”, is a complication that can occur following breast augmentation surgery, particularly when implants are placed beneath the pectoral muscles (submuscular or subpectoral placement). This deformity happens when the pectoral muscles contract, causing the breast implants to move or change shape temporarily.
The issue arises because the implants are positioned below the pectoral muscles, so when the muscles contract, they can put pressure on the implants, causing them to shift, distort, or appear unnatural. The severity of the deformity can vary, with some patients experiencing only mild distortion, while others may have more pronounced or noticeable changes.
Understanding pocket deformity is important for anyone considering breast augmentation surgery, as well as those who have already undergone the procedure. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of pocket deformity and seeking prompt attention from a qualified surgeon can help ensure a successful resolution and prevent further complications.
Causes of Animation Deformity
Several factors contribute to the development of animation deformity, which can vary in severity among patients.
One major factor that contributes to animation deformity is the surgical technique employed during breast augmentation. As previously mentioned, submuscular or subpectoral implant placement can increase the risk of this complication. Your plastic surgeon may opt for this technique to provide better coverage and support for the implant, reduce the risk of visible rippling, or achieve a more natural-looking outcome. However, placing the implant beneath the pectoral muscle means that muscle contractions can directly impact the implant, leading to animation deformity.
Another contributing factor is the patient’s individual anatomy, which can play a significant role in the development of animation deformity. Patients with highly defined or hypertrophic pectoral muscles may be more susceptible to this complication, as their muscle contractions can exert greater force on the implants. Furthermore, if the breast implant pocket is created too close to the muscle’s edge, the muscle may be more likely to apply pressure to the implant during contraction, exacerbating the deformity.
The choice of implant size and shape can also influence the risk of animation deformity. Larger implants may be more prone to distortion, as they may be more likely to come into contact with the pectoral muscles during contractions.
Symptoms and Signs of Animation Deformity
Symptoms and signs of animation deformity can vary in severity, with some patients experiencing only mild distortion, while others may have more pronounced or noticeable changes. Several indicators can help identify the presence of animation deformity in patients who have undergone breast augmentation.
One of the most common signs of animation deformity is the unnatural movement or distortion of the breast implant when the pectoral muscles contract. This can be particularly noticeable during activities that engage the upper body, such as weight lifting, push-ups, or even simple movements like raising the arms. Patients may observe that their breasts change shape, move in an unusual manner, or appear distorted during these activities.
Another symptom of animation deformity is discomfort or pain in the affected breast when the pectoral muscles are engaged. This can occur because the contracting muscle places pressure on the implant, leading to increased tension on the surrounding tissue. In some cases, this discomfort may be mild and only noticeable during specific activities, while in others, it could be more severe or persistent, affecting the patient’s quality of life.
Visible implant rippling or wrinkling is also a possible sign of animation deformity. When the pectoral muscle contracts, it can exert pressure on the implant, causing the overlying skin to ripple or wrinkle. This can be particularly noticeable in patients with thinner skin or less breast tissue, and it may be more apparent when the muscles are engaged.
It is essential for patients who suspect they may be experiencing animation deformity to consult with their plastic surgeon to discuss their concerns and evaluate their options for addressing the issue. Depending on the severity of the deformity and the patient’s individual circumstances, the surgeon may recommend a revision surgery to adjust the implant placement or alter the surgical approach, ultimately aiming to minimize the risk of animation deformity and improve the patient’s satisfaction with their breast augmentation results.
Treatment Options for Animation Deformity
Several treatment options are available for patients experiencing animation deformity, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s unique circumstances.
- One possible treatment option for animation deformity is revision surgery, during which the surgeon adjusts the placement of the breast implants. This may involve moving the implants from a submuscular or subpectoral position to a subglandular or submammary sub-fascial position, which situates the implant above the pectoral muscle and below the fascia and breast tissue. By doing so, the implants are less likely to be affected by muscle contractions, reducing the risk of animation deformity. However, this approach may not be suitable for all patients, as it could lead to increased visibility of the implants, particularly in those with thin skin or limited breast tissue.
- Another potential treatment option is the dual-plane technique, which combines aspects of both submuscular and subglandular placement. In this approach, the upper portion of the implant is positioned beneath the pectoral muscle, while the lower portion is placed above the muscle and below the breast tissue. This technique may provide the benefits of both implant placements, offering better coverage for the implant while reducing the risk of animation deformity. This option may be particularly well-suited for patients who require revision surgery but are not ideal candidates for a purely subglandular approach.
The most suitable treatment option for animation deformity will depend on the patient’s unique circumstances and the severity of their condition. A thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to evaluate the available options, discuss potential risks and benefits, and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the patient’s concerns and goals.
How to Ensure You Have a Successful Breast Augmentation Experience
Pocket deformity is just one of the potential complications that can arise after breast augmentation surgery. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this condition, you can be better prepared to manage any issues that may arise and ensure a successful breast augmentation experience.
When considering breast augmentation surgery, it is important to choose a qualified, experienced surgeon who prioritizes patient safety and satisfaction. By taking steps to prevent complications, such as proper implant selection and pocket creation, you can minimize your risk of developing pocket deformity or other issues.
If you do experience pocket deformity or other breast implant complications, prompt attention and treatment are essential for achieving a successful outcome. Working closely with your surgeon to develop a personalized treatment plan and adhering to post-operative care guidelines can help ensure a smooth recovery and long-term satisfaction with your results.
Overall, breast augmentation surgery can be a rewarding experience for many women, providing a boost to self-confidence and body image. By being informed about the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, you can make an informed decision and take steps to minimize your risk, ensuring a safe and successful outcome.
FAQs about Breast Implants Complications
What are some common complications associated with breast implant surgery?
- Some common complications associated with breast implant surgery include infection, bleeding, scarring, capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue surrounding the implant), implant rupture or leakage, rippling or wrinkling, asymmetry, and changes in nipple or breast sensation.
What is capsular contracture, and how is it treated?
- Capsular contracture is a response to an implantin which the body forms a tight capsule of scar tissue around the breast implant, causing the breast to become hard, painful, or distorted in appearance. Treatment options for capsular contracture include conservative measures such as medication or massage, and more invasive approaches like capsulectomy (removal of the scar tissue capsule) or implant replacement.
How can patients minimize the risk of complications following breast implant surgery?
- To minimize the risk of complications, patients should choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, follow pre- and post-operative care instructions carefully, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor their implants and overall breast health.
Can breast implants affect mammograms or breast cancer detection?
- Breast implants can make mammograms more challenging to interpret, as they may obscure some breast tissue during the imaging process. However, specialized mammogram techniques can help improve visualization of the breast tissue. It is important for patients with breast implants to inform their healthcare providers and radiology technicians about their implants before undergoing a mammogram or other breast imaging exams.
What is implant rupture or leakage, and how is it managed?
- Implant rupture or leakage refers to a tear or hole in the implant shell, allowing the filling material to escape outside the implant shell. Silicone gel is so thick that it will not migrate out of the implant pocket. Dr. Joe uses a specialized ultrasound machine called Clarius to determine if your implant has ruptured. Treatment options for implant rupture or leakage typically involve surgical removal and replacement of the damaged implant. The specific approach depends on the type of implant (saline or silicone) and the patient’s individual circumstances.
Further Reading about Breast Surgery with Dr. Joe
Medical References about Pocket Deformity
