The Double Bubble Deformity: Why It Happens and How to Fix It

For many women considering breast augmentation, the ultimate goal is simple: to feel more confident, proportionate, and beautiful. And in most cases, the outcome of a breast implant surgery is just that—empowering, transformative, and positive. However, like all surgical procedures, breast augmentation comes with potential risks, including one aesthetic complication that causes concern for both patients and surgeons alike: the “double bubble” deformity.

If you’ve ever seen a breast augmentation result where it looks like the breast has two distinct folds or a visible crease across the lower portion, you’ve likely encountered the “double bubble.” In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what this deformity is, why it happens, how to prevent it, and—most importantly—how to correct it if it occurs.

What Is the “Double Bubble” Deformity?#

The term “double bubble” refers to a visual and structural issue that can appear after breast augmentation. It happens when the natural fold under the breast (called the inframammary fold) doesn't adapt smoothly to the new shape created by the implant. Instead of a seamless curve, two separate bulges appear—one from the natural breast tissue and another from the implant.

This leads to a visible line or indentation across the lower pole of the breast, making it appear as if the breast is divided into two mounds. The deformity can be especially noticeable in tight clothing or swimwear and can cause emotional distress, self-consciousness, and dissatisfaction with the surgery outcome.

Double bubble is not painful or dangerous—but it is certainly frustrating, especially when you've invested time, hope, and money into your surgery.

Why Does the Double Bubble Occur?#

The double bubble can occur for several reasons, and it’s important to understand that it’s not always the result of a “bad” surgery. Often, it’s the interplay of a patient’s unique anatomy, surgical decisions, and healing patterns. Here are the most common causes:

1. Incorrect Implant Positioning#

If the implant is placed too low—below the natural breast fold—the result may be a bulging implant beneath the original breast mound, creating the dual-crease effect.

2. Pre-Existing Breast Sagging (Ptosis)#

Women with significant natural breast ptosis (sagging) are at higher risk. If the surgeon doesn’t perform a lift in combination with the implant placement, the existing sagging tissue may fall over the implant, again leading to the appearance of two separate bubbles.

3. Improper Implant Type or Size#

Choosing an implant that is too large or shaped incorrectly for the patient’s chest can cause unnatural pressure and stretching on the lower pole of the breast, leading to displacement and the double bubble.

4. Surgical Technique Errors#

If the implant pocket is dissected too aggressively or placed incorrectly—especially during submuscular placement—the risk increases. An inexperienced or underqualified surgeon may fail to respect the natural anatomy.

5. Poor Post-Operative Support#

Skipping essential recovery protocols—like wearing a compression bra or lifting heavy objects too soon—can affect how the implant settles and how the tissue heals.

How to Prevent the Double Bubble#

The best treatment is prevention—and that begins with knowledge and smart choices. Here are the top ways to minimize your risk of developing a double bubble deformity after your breast augmentation:

1. Choose a Certified, Experienced Surgeon#

This is the single most important factor. At Plastic Surgery Turkey Group, our surgeons are board-certified, internationally accredited, and have decades of combined experience in breast aesthetics. Choosing a qualified surgeon who understands your anatomy and the dynamics of breast augmentation is your best defense.

2. Have a Comprehensive Consultation#

During your consultation, your surgeon should:

• Measure your chest width, skin elasticity, and natural breast tissue volume
• Evaluate for ptosis or asymmetry
• Discuss whether you need a lift (mastopexy) in addition to implants
• Recommend the right implant size, profile, and placement (over vs. under muscle)

This is a personalized process—what works for one patient may be wrong for another.

3. Prioritize Post-Op Care#

After surgery, follow every single instruction your medical team gives you. This includes:

• Wearing a compression bra for the specified time
• Avoiding sleeping on your stomach or sides
• Refraining from exercise, heavy lifting, and sudden movements
• Attending all follow-up appointments

Skipping or rushing through recovery is one of the top causes of complications, including implant malposition and double bubble formation.

How Is the Double Bubble Corrected?#

If you’re experiencing a double bubble after your breast augmentation, take a deep breath: it is fixable. In fact, it’s a known complication, and experienced surgeons are trained in how to address it effectively.

1. Revision Surgery#

In most cases, revision surgery is required. This might involve:

• Repositioning the implant pocket higher or lower
• Switching from subglandular to submuscular placement (or vice versa)
• Adding a breast lift to tighten sagging tissue
• Adjusting the inframammary fold through internal sutures

The exact approach depends on your individual anatomy and what caused the double bubble in the first place.

2. Fat Grafting (in Some Cases)#

Some patients benefit from fat grafting to smooth out irregularities or improve skin elasticity around the implant.

3. Implant Replacement#

If the implant is the wrong size or type, it may need to be swapped for one that fits your body better.

4. Timing Is Key#

It’s worth noting that some swelling or distortion early in the healing process can mimic a double bubble. That’s why we often recommend waiting several months before jumping to revision—unless the issue is clearly structural.

Confidence Begins with the Right Surgeon#

Experiencing a complication after surgery can feel disheartening—but don’t let it shake your confidence. The double bubble deformity is a known risk, and it can be resolved with expert care. The best way to protect your investment and your confidence is by doing your homework, choosing a skilled surgeon, and following through with post-op instructions.

At Plastic Surgery Turkey Group, we pride ourselves on our dedication to both artistry and safety. Our internationally accredited clinic in Istanbul is known for achieving natural, beautiful results in breast augmentation—without shortcuts.

✅ Want proof?
Browse our before-and-after photo gallery to see the real transformations we’ve achieved for women just like you.

✅ Want reassurance?
Read real patient stories and reviews to see why so many women trust us with their most personal aesthetic goals.

Final Thoughts#

No woman undergoes breast augmentation expecting complications—but understanding risks like the double bubble, and knowing how to avoid or correct them, gives you the power to make informed, confident decisions.

You deserve to feel amazing in your body. Let us help you get there—with compassion, expertise, and results that speak for themselves.