How Long Does It Take for Breast Implants to Soften?
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.
While a majority of your breast augmentation results are immediately noticeable after surgery, the breasts are typically also high on the chest and feel hard to the touch. This is because in a subpectoral ( “under the muscle”) augmentation, the muscle has not yet relaxed to accommodate the implant volume, and there is more room in the pocket at the top than at the bottom. This is completely normal but can be frustrating for some patients. Thankfully, the breasts do settle to a more natural position and soften as the healing process continues.
When Will Breast Implants Soften?
As you continue to heal after your breast augmentation, your breasts will gradually become softer and settle from their high-set position. Some people refer to this process as “fluffing.” Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six weeks to six months for your breasts to soften and settle.
During the first weeks or months after your breast augmentation, swelling and natural tissue tightness causes the breasts to be firm and high on the chest. As swelling subsides, the tissue stretches and expands and implants drop into the breast pocket. This process can take longer if you have larger breast implants. In addition, each breast may soften and settle at a different rate.
If your breasts remain firm for longer than six months or one breast remains firm for significantly longer than the other, call Dr. Angelchik. This could be a sign of complications such as capsular contracture.
How Can I Make My Breast Implants Settle Faster?
You can help your breasts soften and settle faster through daily breast massages once Dr. Angelchik clears you to do so. This helps to expand the breast pocket and helps the implant settle into place. In addition, massaging the tissue helps prevent capsular contracture. You should be careful to follow Dr. Angelchik’s directions throughout the healing process to avoid any complications. Dr. Angelchik also will recommend Vitamin E supplements by mouth and certain types of exercises or garments when necessary. Most patients will get a bandeau, an elastic strip that pushes the implants down into the pocket, after surgery.
How Long Does It Take to Heal After Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation recovery will vary from patient-to-patient. Some patients experience significant soreness, while others only feel mild discomfort. Most patients take about 1 weekaway from work, school, or other daily routines after their surgery. After this, an additional 2-4 weeks are necessary to sufficiently heal before you return to all activities like your exercise routine. Dr. Angelchik will advise you to avoid lifting anything heavy for at least 4-6 weeks after your surgery and will monitor your healing through follow-up appointments.
Schedule a Consultation
To schedule a breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Angelchik, call our Glendale, Arizona office at (602) 806-1112 or schedule a consultation through our online form.
