Breast Augmentation and Liposuction Blog - Dr. Bottger

In breast augmentation surgery, one of the decisions that the patient and surgeon must make together is where to place the breast implants on the chest:

• Under the breast tissue, called the subglandular plane
• Under the pectoralis muscle, called the submuscular plane
• Under both the breast tissue and pectoralis muscle, called the dual plane

Each of these locations has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Likewise, some locations are better than others depending on the type of implant being inserted.

A phenomenon called “double bubble” is one breast implant complication that can arise when implants are placed under the pectoralis muscle or on the submuscular plane. If the patient’s breasts begin to sag or droop after the implant is placed, the implant will typically stay in place as the breast tissue drops below. The patient may then be left with what may appear like two breast creases or two breasts.

The double bubble can also occur:

• After a patient has experienced breast sagging after pregnancy and/or breastfeeding
• As a result of capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant begins to constrict, creating painful or hardened breasts
• If the patient has tubular-shaped breasts
• If the patient has a constricted breast crease

Depending on the severity, a double bubble can be corrected by a breast lift, implant removal or replacement.

If you would like to learn more about the potential risks and complications of breast implant surgery, please contact our office today to arrange a breast augmentation consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Bottger.