Do implants move, shift or change shape after pregnancy?

I had breast augmentation, under the muscle, using saline smooth shelled implants 8 years ago. I had a child three years ago and my implants are now visible through the skin with rippling and the left implant seems to have shifted slightly causing mild aching. Does it sound like these need to be replaced or is this all normal?

A woman’s breast will change following pregnancy and nursing and time alone.  Following pregnancy and nursing, breast will enlarge and engorge, and then will atrophy or involute. This will leave the breast ‘droopier’ and thinner, and can cause the nipple to descend.  If you are thin to start with and have little breast tissue, you will notice that you can feel the implant much more. This is especially common with saline implants where rippling can be noticed. You should visit your board-certified plastic surgeon to have him/her evaluate if you would benefit from an implant exchange to a high profile silicone implant with or without a lift.

For more information, contact Orange County Plastic Surgeon Dr. Sanjay Grover.