bottoming out
Pronunciation: BOT-om-ing owt
A complication where the breast implant migrates inferiorly, creating an unnatural low breast position.
Full Definition
Bottoming out is a specific type of implant malposition characterized by inferior migration of the breast implant, resulting in the implant sitting too low on the chest wall. This creates an unnatural breast shape with the nipple appearing to sit high on the breast mound and an empty upper pole. The condition can result from over-dissection of the inframammary fold, implant weight, tissue weakness, or inadequate surgical technique. Treatment typically requires surgical revision with inframammary fold reconstruction, capsulorrhaphy, and possibly implant exchange. The complication is more common with larger implants and in patients with weak tissue support.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as a compound modifier. Can be used as a noun or gerund phrase.
In Context
- "The patient developed bilateral bottoming out requiring inframammary fold reconstruction." — Revision consultation note
- "Early signs of bottoming out were noted at the six-week follow-up appointment." — Post-operative examination