Is it normal for them to drop at different rates? (Photo)

Question

My left (your right I think) has dropped a lot more than my right. My right appears higher and smaller. I've been massaging and following the drs orders on wearing compression bra and strap. I am 3 weeks post op. How long does this typically take and so far do they look okay?

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

It is absolutely normal for the implants to drop at slightly different rates.At this stage, you are still early in the healing process.  The final result for a breast augmentation or Lift is never really judged until several months from the procedure.  Typically, I will wait 6 months before I assess the results.  Of course, it can be difficult to be patient while awaiting a result for such a long time, especially when you are excited.  But, keep in mind that living human tissues are different than sculpting with plastic or sewing with cloth.  Those substances are fixed and don't change much with time.  Human tissues, on the other hand, stretch, spread, settle, and change as they go through the different stages of healing.  This process takes time and as it proceeds, your result will change until the healing is complete.This is why plastic surgeons will always advise patience for the first few months after these procedures.  In the meantime, keep in close contact with your plastic surgeon and he/she can assure you that things are proceeding in the right direction.I hope this info helps!Best of Luck, Dr. SubbioPhiladelphia/Newtown SquareBoard-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.I want to assure you that it is very common for implants to settle at slightly different rates.  In some cases, this can be due to handedness, muscle strength, implant size, etc...  Continue to follow your doctors recovery instructions and present for routine follow up appointments.  You are still very early in the recovery process so please be patient, but it looks like you are healing great!

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

It is quite normal for your breasts to drop at different rates. You look typical for this time in your recovery. Continue to follow up with your surgeon. It usually takes three months to see the final result.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Every breast is different, as such the reaction to augmentation will differ as well. There may be differences in appearance (size/position) due to:-asymmetric swelling-innate pre-op differences in size and skin/muscle tone-subtle differences in pocket dissectionThe implants will initially seem to be "riding high" but will settle over time (assuming adequate muscle release. Patients should bear in mind that the skin and soft tissues need to stretch to accommodate the implant, especially in the lower pole.All told, the whole process may take 3-4 months. Persistent concerns beyond this point may necessitate some degree of surgical revision.The best advice is to be patient and follow the recommendations of your board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Keith Hodge, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have a little difference in the rate of descent of the implants early in the post-op period. Keep massaging and/or use a a bandeau strap for downward pressure. Good luck!

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent procedure!  You are still very early in the healing process and should notice several changes throughout the next upcoming weeks.  Your breasts will not be fully healed and feel more a part of you until about the three month mark.  Continue your massaging and follow up visits with your surgeon  Good luck and congratulations again!

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are still early in the post-operative period. It typically takes 3 - 6 months for the swelling to subside and and implants to settle into proper position. Please discuss your concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon. Also, make sure you follow all of your plastic surgeons post-operative instructions regarding level of physical activity and use of a support bra. Hope this helps and good luck with your recovery.

Jonathan Weiler, MD · Answer

Hi hales524,
Thank you for your pictures and questions. It is absolutely normal for implants to drop at separate rates. Continue to massage and follow up with your surgeon. Best of Luck!

Gabriel Del Corral, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, there is no question they can drop at different rates. Specially if your surgeon used a smooth surface implant. Give your self some time and review your concerns with your Plastic surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Yes, each breast may drop at a different rate and you might want to compare the folds and how they looked prior to surgery as well.

Is it normal for them to drop at different rates? (Photo)

Answers (14)

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