For some people, breast reconstruction with implants after a mastectomy can help restore confidence and support emotional healing. But implants can also cause physical changes, including unusual sensations such as the feeling of an air bubble in the breast or chest area.

MyBCTeam members who have undergone reconstruction have described feeling an air bubble in their breast implant or the surrounding chest area.

So, what does this sensation mean, and when is it a cause for concern? Here’s what you need to know.

What Does an Air Bubble Feel Like?

The sensation of air bubbles or an air pocket in a breast implant can be concerning, especially if you weren’t expecting it.

🗳️ Did you notice any odd sensations, such as the feeling of an air bubble, after breast reconstruction surgery?

Yes, I noticed an air bubble sensation.

Yes, I noticed other odd sensations.

Yes, I noticed an air bubble sensation and other odd feelings.

No, I didn’t notice any odd sensations.

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“I’ve been getting this feeling on and off for a few months now,” shared one member. “It sort of feels like an air bubble in my chest. Not painful, just weird. It radiates out and up and makes me a little lightheaded for a few seconds.”

“It sort of feels like an air bubble in my chest. Not painful, just weird.”

— A MyBCTeam member

Another member said, regarding tissue expanders: “If you haven’t completed your fills, there’s going to be some weird sounds and sensations.”

Here are some reasons you might feel an air bubble sensation during breast reconstruction and recovery.

Air Bubbles During the Expansion Process

For some people, breast reconstruction is a two-step process that begins with the placement of a tissue expander. This device works like an empty breast implant. Your plastic surgeon slowly fills it with saline, air, or gas every one to three weeks. The tissue expander helps stretch the skin and chest muscles until there’s enough space for a permanent implant.

Traditionally, tissue expanders were filled with saline. But newer versions may use carbon dioxide to inflate the expander.

During the filling process, the surrounding tissues may stretch and feel pressure. These changes can lead to different sensations. Most sensations are normal and should gradually improve after the permanent implant is in place. You may notice a:

• Wrinkling sensation — When the tissue expander is empty, it may feel odd or wrinkled. “My expander had what felt like a fold in it,” explained a MyBCTeam member. “It’s gone now since I’ve been able to have them filled up once.”
• Popping sound — Filling the expanders can also create an unusual sensation and produce sounds. “I remember at my last fill, hearing ‘pop, pop, pop.’ It was the fluid filling in,” said one MyBCTeam member.

“I remember at my last fill, hearing ‘pop, pop, pop.’ It was the fluid filling in.”

— A MyBCTeam member

Which Sensations Are Normal?

It’s important to know the difference between normal sensations and those that may indicate a problem. Most people who have undergone reconstruction report feeling mild discomfort, tightness, or pressure in their breasts during the first stages of the healing process.

Other sensations after surgery may include itchiness, wetness, warmth, numbness, and tenderness. These feelings can happen as nerves heal after surgery. They usually improve with time, but if they continue or get worse, talk to your plastic surgeon.

Some MyBCTeam members have shared ways they cope with strange sensations. One member said, “To get rid of the feeling of an air bubble in my chest, I take in a deep and long breath until the pain ends or the bubble pops.”

Always talk to your doctor about chest pain, lightheadedness, or symptoms that are new or getting worse.

“To get rid of the feeling of an air bubble in my chest, I take in a deep and long breath until the pain ends or the bubble pops.”

— A MyBCTeam member

When To Call Your Doctor

Some sensations and symptoms could be a sign of an infection or another complication. Contact your breast cancer team right away if you have any of the following symptoms after receiving breast implants:

• Severe or persistent pain
• Swelling, rashes, or changes in color
• Changes in breast shape or appearance
• New or more intense sensations

Below, we’ll explain what these symptoms may mean and when to get medical care.

Severe or Persistent Pain

Some breast pain is expected after surgery. But severe or long-lasting pain may be a sign of an infection or implant-related complication. Getting it checked early can help you avoid delays in treatment.

Swelling, Rashes, or Changes in Color

If you notice major swelling or color changes in one or both breasts, talk with your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of infection or an allergic reaction. It could also mean that fluid from the healing process is collecting underneath your skin, creating a swelling called a seroma.

Usually, your body will reabsorb this fluid on its own. If it doesn’t, your doctor or nurse can remove it with a small syringe.

Changes in Breast Shape or Appearance

Some changes in the shape or appearance of your breasts over time are normal. But if you notice major changes, such as unevenness or a distorted shape, talk with your surgeon.

A breast tissue expander or implant may rupture because of surgical complications, pressure on the breast, an injury to the breast, or the age of the implant.

• If a saline implant ruptures, you may notice deflation as the breast loses volume.
• If a silicone implant ruptures, the change may be less obvious, but leaking silicone gel can still cause changes in the shape of your breast.

If you think your implant has ruptured or is leaking, contact your surgeon as soon as possible.

New or More Intense Sensations

Unusual sensations can also happen during expansion and healing. Call your doctor right away if you notice skin changes, discoloration, swelling, worsening pain, fever, drainage, or a new change in breast shape.

Some people may also have systemic (body-wide) symptoms known as breast implant illness. Researchers are still studying these symptoms to better understand what causes them.

If you’re having any new or worrisome symptoms, they should be checked by your medical team right away.

Stay in Touch With Your Doctor

Everyone’s experience with breast reconstruction is different. You may feel many types of sensations afterward. Some are a normal part of healing and getting used to the implants. Others should be checked by a healthcare provider.

Talk openly with your breast cancer care team. They can help you understand any symptoms or side effects as you recover from breast implant surgery and make sure you get the care and support you need.

Join the Conversation

On MyBCTeam, people share their experiences with breast cancer, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Have you felt an air bubble sensation in your breast during the reconstruction process? If so, did it go away on its own? Let others know in the comments below.