animation deformity
Visible distortion of breast implants that occurs when underlying pectoralis muscle contracts during arm movement.
Full Definition
Animation deformity is a complication of submuscular breast implant placement where the implant moves unnaturally when the pectoralis major muscle contracts during arm movements, exercise, or flexing. This occurs because the muscle lies directly over the upper portion of the implant, causing visible distortion of breast shape during muscle activation. The deformity is most noticeable during activities like push-ups, weight lifting, or arm stretching. While not medically dangerous, animation deformity can be aesthetically bothersome and may limit activities. Prevention strategies include careful muscle dissection techniques, dual-plane placement, or alternative implant positioning such as subfascial placement.
Usage
Usage note: Document specific activities that trigger the deformity and impact on patient quality of life.
In Context
- "The patient experienced significant animation deformity when performing upper body exercises following submuscular implant placement." — follow-up appointment notes
- "Subfascial placement techniques have been developed to reduce animation deformity while maintaining adequate implant coverage." — surgical technique article