A waterfall deformity occurs when a breast implant stays high on the chest, but the breast tissue slides down and off the front of it. The result is a sloping contour, with the natural breast tissue hanging below a prominent upper pole. This complication is a common reason for breast revision surgery, and it’s very correctable.
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What Causes a Waterfall Deformity?
Most waterfall deformities develop gradually as the breast changes around a stable implant, whether due to pregnancy and nursing, weight fluctuations, or the natural aging process. This is especially true when the implant is placed beneath the chest muscle, as the muscle will hold it in position, while the breast tissue itself starts to sag.
In some cases, this effect is caused when a patient gets a breast augmentation alone but would have been a better candidate for a breast lift or combined procedure.
Waterfall Deformity: Sometimes called a “Snoopy deformity,” this term describes breast tissue that sags off the front of an implant, giving the breast a sloping side profile.
Is a Waterfall Deformity the Same as Double Bubble Breast Implants?
No, although both involve a mismatch between the implant and the breast. With a waterfall deformity, the breast tissue drops while the implant stays high. With double bubble breast implants, the implant itself moves, usually sliding below the natural breast crease and leaving a visible fold across the lower breast.
This latter effect is a form of implant malposition, one of several recognized breast implant complications. Identifying which complication you have matters, since each requires a different correction.
How Is a Waterfall Deformity Corrected?
Correcting a waterfall deformity typically involves lifting the breast tissue and repositioning the implant so the two work together again. I often combine a breast lift with an implant exchange or an adjustment to the implant pocket, which also corrects any implant displacement. For patients who need extra breast support, I may place a tissue matrix that acts as an internal underwire.
Every plan is customized, so your revision costs and recovery timeline will depend on the specific techniques involved.
Schedule Your Breast Revision Consultation
If your breasts have developed a sloping or bottom-heavy shape, I can help restore a balanced, natural contour with breast revision surgery. Request a consultation or call Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at (407) 218-4550 to get started.
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