Recurrent Breast Animation after Conversion from Dual Plane to Prepectoral Breast Implant Placement

Abstract

Summary: Conversion to a prepectoral implant pocket is considered the definitive treatment for breast animation after implant-based breast reconstruction. Although subtle movement of implants placed in the prepectoral plane may be noted on clinical examination by experienced surgeons, current data demonstrate complete resolution of animation deformity with prepectoral implant placement. We present the case of a middle-aged women who underwent breast implant pocket conversion from dual-plane to prepectoral plane for treatment of animation deformity. Although her postoperative recovery was unremarkable with initial resolution of animation, recurrent implant animation was evident on 3-month follow-up. Recurrent breast animation after conversion from dual-plane to prepectoral implant pocket is highly unusual and unreported in the current literature. Although revision surgery may identify potential causes, larger-scale research on contributing factors will be valuable in developing strategies to prevent recurrent animation after conversion to a prepectoral implant pocket.