Athena Vale
Breast implants are usually made of a cohesive silicone gel that retains its shape over time. However, several problems may arise with breast implants, especially those placed under the muscle. One of the most common issues is muscle spasms, which can cause tightness in the chest and, in some cases, severe discomfort. Other potential problems include capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant, and animation deformity, where the implant moves in an unnatural manner during exercise or everyday actions. While muscle twitching can occur as a result of nerve stimulation, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out any other possible causes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Muscle twitching | Caused by nerve stimulation of the pectoralis muscle |
| Cause of nerve stimulation | Pitched nerves in the neck |
| Muscle spasms | More likely to occur with submuscular implant position |
| Subglandular placement | May be a good choice if you have sufficient breast tissue |
| Capsular contracture | Hardening of the breast, painful or tight feeling in the breast, breast tingling, or the breast becoming misshapen |
| Treatment for capsular contracture | Massage therapy, strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or surgery |
| Chest wall tightness | Caused by excessive tension or scarring around the implant pocket, overly large implants, or capsular contracture |
| Treatment for chest wall tightness | Massage therapy, strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or surgery to loosen the surrounding tissue |
| Waterfall deformity | Sagging of the breast tissue over the implant |
| Animation deformity | Distortion in the implants when contracting the chest muscle |
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What You'll Learn
Submuscular implants can cause muscle spasms
Submuscular implants, also known as under-the-muscle implants, are placed beneath the chest muscle. This type of implant placement may produce a more natural look and can lower the chance of capsular contracture—a problem in which scar tissue develops around the implant, causing hardening and distortion of the breast. While submuscular implants offer these advantages, they can also cause muscle spasms or tightness as the muscle adjusts to the presence of the implant. This can contribute to discomfort in the first few days to weeks post-surgery, with some people experiencing spasms for up to three or four weeks if they received larger implants.
The pectoral muscle contractions can cause temporary flattening or indentation of the implants, which may be a concern for athletes and bodybuilders. This change in shape and appearance occurs when the chest muscles contract and squeeze anything beneath them. Although this issue resolves upon muscle relaxation, it can be remedied surgically through prepectoral revision or explant and autologous reconstruction.
Submuscular implants are also associated with a longer recovery time and more initial discomfort. The manipulation of the chest muscles during surgery can result in post-operative pain, soreness, swelling, and bruising, delaying a return to regular activity. Patients may experience temporary limitations in arm movement and lifting, as the muscles need time to heal and adjust to the implants.
Additionally, submuscular implants can lead to animation deformities, which are shifts or changes in the shape of the implants during pectoral muscle contraction-related activities. This can cause aesthetic concerns and discomfort, particularly when exercising or wearing certain clothes. In some cases, surgical revision may be necessary to address these issues.
It is important to note that individuals with pre-existing muscular problems or a tendency to experience spasms may find their symptoms worsened with submuscular implants. Implants can alter muscle function, causing discomfort or difficulties for those with muscle health issues. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional and carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before opting for any surgical procedure.
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Animation deformity and dynamic distortion
Breast implant animation deformity (BAD), also known as dynamic breast deformity, is characterised by excessive movement or distortion of the breast implant during activities that contract the chest muscles. This condition is commonly observed in patients who have undergone submuscular (under the muscle) breast augmentation, which is often preferred for its natural appearance. However, the problem arises when physically active individuals flex their pectoralis muscles during exercise, causing the implants to appear misshapen, squished, or rippled.
The prevalence of animation deformity was found to be significantly higher in patients with subpectoral implants (73.9%) compared to those with prepectoral implants (10.5%). This disparity has been attributed to various factors, including the subjectivity of assessment scales, inconsistent categorisation, surgical techniques, implant placement, and study designs. To address this issue, researchers have proposed two new grading systems: the Nipple, Surrounding Skin, Entire Breast (NSE) grading scale and Kim et al.'s quantitative grading system, which offer improved standardisation and reproducibility.
Corrective surgery is often recommended for patients experiencing dynamic breast deformity. For those with a history of submuscular implantation, the implant can be repositioned to a prepectoral location using an acellular dermal matrix, creating a softer contour and a pocket for the implant beneath the skin. Other surgical options include prepectoral revision, explant and autologous reconstruction, and fat transfer or a breast lift.
It is important to note that muscle spasms are common after breast augmentation surgery, particularly with submuscular implant placement. These spasms can cause tightness in the chest and usually subside within a few weeks. Consulting a cosmetic surgeon can help determine the most suitable implant placement and provide guidance on stretching and massage techniques to alleviate discomfort.
While animation deformity and dynamic distortion are concerns for patients with breast implants, they can be effectively addressed through surgical corrections and proper implant placement. Patients should consult experienced cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons like Dr. Steven Holzman to make informed decisions regarding their specific circumstances.
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Capsular contracture
The formation of scar tissue around an implant is a normal part of the body's healing process. In most cases, the scar tissue does not interfere with the size, shape, or texture of the breasts. However, in some instances, the scar tissue can contract and harden around the implant, leading to capsular contracture.
The exact cause of capsular contracture is unknown, but several factors have been proposed. These include bacterial contamination, the body's immune response, genetics, and the type of implant used. It is important to note that the condition is not caused by the implants being toxic or dangerous. Saline and silicone gel implants are made of medically safe materials.
The risk of developing capsular contracture varies depending on the placement of the implant. Partial under-the-muscle implant placement carries an 8-12% lifetime risk, while over-the-muscle placement has a slightly higher risk of 12-18%. Completely under-the-muscle implants have the lowest risk, with only a 4-8% chance of developing capsular contracture.
The severity of capsular contracture is typically graded on a scale from 1 to 4, with grade 1 being asymptomatic and grade 4 resulting in hardened, misshapen breasts with soreness and pain. Treatment options for capsular contracture range from medication to surgery, such as capsulectomy or implant replacement. While capsular contracture is not a common complication, it is essential for individuals considering breast implants to understand the potential risks and take preventative measures during and after surgery.
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Surgical fixes for muscle twitching
While muscle twitching is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable and disruptive. In some cases, it can indicate a more serious underlying condition.
If muscle twitching is caused by breast implants, it is likely due to muscle spasms as the pectoral muscle adjusts to the implant. This should go away within a few weeks, but can be addressed with stretching and massage techniques. Severe discomfort should be addressed with a surgeon, who may recommend surgery.
Prepectoral revision
This procedure involves removing the implant from under the muscle and placing a new implant on top of the muscle. This can prevent the temporary change in shape caused by muscle contractions.
Explant and autologous reconstruction
This procedure also involves removing the implant. However, instead of a new implant, the doctor replaces it with a graft of the patient's own tissue.
Capsular contracture correction
Capsular contracture is a common problem with submuscular breast implants, causing hardening, pain, and misshapen breasts. It can be corrected surgically, with a lower risk of reoccurrence if the implant is placed under the muscle.
Implant replacement and repositioning
Implants can be replaced and repositioned, or removed and replaced with a fat transfer, to correct issues such as the "waterfall deformity effect" caused by sagging breast tissue.
It is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for any muscle twitching or discomfort.
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Lifestyle factors and chest wall tightness
Lifestyle factors can play a significant role in addressing chest wall tightness, which can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. Here are some factors to consider:
Diet and Nutrition
Adopting a healthy diet is an important lifestyle factor that can positively impact overall health and help manage certain conditions that cause chest tightness. For example, dietary changes can help manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which involves chronic acid reflux and can cause chest tightness. A healthcare provider or registered dietitian can assist in creating a personalised eating plan.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is another lifestyle factor that can improve various health conditions and reduce the risk of heart, vascular, and other diseases. Losing weight or reaching a healthy weight may help alleviate chest tightness associated with conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), where excess weight can further strain the heart.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Engaging in regular physical activity is recommended by healthcare professionals to reduce the risk of heart and vascular diseases. For individuals experiencing chest tightness due to muscle strain, specific stretching routines and massage techniques can be beneficial. However, in the case of HCM, symptoms often worsen with exertion, so exercise routines should be carefully considered and discussed with a healthcare provider.
Stress Management
While not directly mentioned in the sources, stress management techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, may be beneficial for chest tightness caused by anxiety or stress-related factors.
Medical Treatment and Surgery
In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient to address chest wall tightness. Medical treatment, including medication and, in certain situations, surgery, may be necessary. For example, chest tightness due to capsular contracture, a complication of breast implants, may require surgical correction. Additionally, severe chest tightness, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like breathing trouble, fever, or confusion, warrants immediate medical attention.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, breast implants can cause muscle twitching. This twitching is likely the result of the pectoralis chest muscle going into spasms. It can also be due to nerve stimulation of the pectoralis muscle.
In the case of muscle spasms, massage therapy may help alleviate the issue by releasing tension in the surrounding muscle tissue. Your cosmetic surgeon can discuss stretching routines and other massage techniques to reduce discomfort.
There are several potential risks associated with breast implants, particularly those placed under the muscle. These risks include muscle spasms, capsular contracture, infection, rupture, and changes in shape and appearance during muscle contraction.
Capsular contracture is a condition where scar tissue forms around an implant, leading to hardening, pain, and changes in breast shape and texture. It can occur in both over-the-muscle and under-the-muscle implant placements, with lifetime risk percentages ranging from 4 to 18%.
