Asymmetrical Swelling After Breast Implant Replacement

Question

Is it normal to have one breast more swollen than the other after breast implants replacement?

Shahram Salemy, MD, FACS · Answer

I always tell my patients to not be surprised if one side swells more or takes longer to settle down after surgery, in particular after revision procedures like the one you're describing.  It will take several weeks to see the final results, so in the meantime, be patient, follow your surgeon's instructions, and give your body at least 4-6 weeks to heal properly.
Good luck!
 
Dr. Salemy

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.After your #breast #augmentation, the two breasts commonly heal quite
differently. One breast may #swell more, feel more uncomfortable, or have a
different initial #shape. After complete #healing, they will be more similar and
natural. It may take two to three months for most swelling to subside and up to a year to see the final result.  You must have patience, but if this causes concern, ask questions of your #boardcertified plastic surgeon or the nursing staff.

Nina S. Naidu, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not unusual after breast augmentation surgery to notice more swelling in one breast as compared to the other.  This usually resolves within the first month after surgery.  
In some cases, more work was done on one side, and therefore there will be more swelling.  
However, if you notice sudden swelling in one breast associated with pain, you should contact your surgeon immediately to be evaluated for bleeding. Bleeding around or under the implant needs to be addressed immediately. 
Best wishes, Dr. Naidu

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

Any secondary surgery usually involves more tissue manipulation than the first surgery.  As such, we would expect more swelling.  In your particular case, having more swelling on  one side would be very common and not a reason to worry as long as it is not a hematoma/seroma.
Seek some reassurance from your surgeon that it is just swelling and not something that needs to be evacuated.  Then let time do the rest.  Best of luck.

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD · Answer

Asymmetry is healing of a bilateral structure is normal whether it be eyelids, arms, or breasts. It would be unusual for the breasts to heal exactly the same. Just be sure t is not abnormal swelling do to a hematoma.

Asymmetrical Swelling After Breast Implant Replacement

Answers (5)

Answer: Yes, at least for the initial 2 weeks or so

Answer: Yes, at least for the initial 2 weeks or so

Answer: Yes

Answer: Yes

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Asymmetrical Swelling After Breast Implant Replacement

Answers (5)

Answer: Yes, at least for the initial 2 weeks or so

Answer: Yes, at least for the initial 2 weeks or so

Answer: Yes

Answer: Yes

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.