A member asked:

Is it normal to have a crackling in the skin after a breast augmentation?

19 doctors weighed in across 7 answers
Dr. Robert Alexander answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Yes: This is occasionally reported, but typically early following implant placement. It is more common in saline that silicone implants. As the site matures, this tends to self-correct.

Answered 11/20/2014

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Dr. Todd Sisto answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Yes: Called crepitus- caused by air left behind and not yet reabsorbed and harmless. If it is new and accompanied by signs and symptoms of infection could be ominous- call your md!

Answered 10/23/2017

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Yes: It happens and is nothing to worry about. It usually goes away in a day or two.

Answered 1/29/2012

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Breast aug crackles: This is very common and is likely due to air trapped beneath the skin during surgery (called subcutaneous emphysema). It gets absorbed and is not a health concern unless it is associated with redness, fevers and chiils. Commonly at 3 weeks, women report a squeeking or sloshing sensation which also resolved.

Answered 8/7/2018

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Dr. Timothy Mountcastle answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Yes: Yes it is. It could also be a sign of a pneumothorax but this would be highly unlikely.

Answered 7/15/2012

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Crepitus: What you are referring to is known as “crepitus”; this is most commonly ( benign finding) related to air that remains for a temporary period after the breast augmentation procedure. On the other hand, this may be related to an unusual/serious complication: pneumothorax. Therefore, your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to specifics.

Answered 11/23/2017

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Dr. Thomas Fiala answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Quite common: It's usually related to a little bit of air in the pocket around the implant. This absorbs over about 3 weeks. It can also make squishy noises and squeaks - but it is temporary, and does no harm.

Answered 1/5/2019

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