Follow up: Is a bump that feels like a bubble or water balloon normal to feel 2 weeks after surgery? (photos)

Question

I just had my 2 week post check up yesterday-silicone implants under the muscle. My PS told me to go ahead and start massaging. I didn't notice it in the beginning but halfway through massaging I noticed a thumb size bump that feels like a water balloon . I called my PS and she said it is normal since I'm still so early. Is this normal in the healing process and will it go away? I posted some pictures to show you location but you won't be able to see it as you can only feel it.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Without seeing you in person, it is impossible to say what the "bump" is. It could be the edge of your implant. Or fluid. If your surgeon isn't concerned, I would advise you to just continue with your post op massage and see if it disappears on its own. My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and series of photographs, and congratulations on your surgery.  After a breast augmentation patients can develop temporary, small air pockets that can lead to this sensation which will spontaneously resolve with time.  Additionally some patients can more readily feel the edge of their implants as a source for this balloon feeling.  As you just had your follow up exam it is unlikely that the sensation is something concerning as your surgeon would have alerted you to it, so hang in there and allow your results further time to mature, but maintain close follow up appointments to ensure appropriate healing

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Thank very much for posting photos with your question.I recommend you visit with your plastic surgeon because without an in-person evaluation it is very hard to say.If I had to guess these are some scenarios. 1. Seroma or liquid accumulation. Seromas can be drained but for small seromas, a less invasive approach such as massages is usually enough. Seromas can be associated with infections so it is always a good idea to have your PS do an in-person examination.2. Normal swelling from the procedure. You are only 2 weeks post op and at this point any abrupt movment or even the wrong sleeping position can exacerbate swelling.3. Air bubbles, although this is more often seen in the earlier stages of recovery . Sometimes air gets trapped inside the pocket when putting the implant in. When this happens some patients may feel a bump or a crawling sensation under the skin when palpating the affected area.Please keep in mind that only way to be sure is by visiting your PS and have him evaluate your condition.Best of luck on your recovery.Dr. Miguel Mota

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You might be feeling the implant or fluid around the implants. I would have to examine you in person to be sure. Best to check with your surgeon.

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting your question. I am happy to try
and help you.

It is common to have different women's implants settle at different rates over
different periods of time. They will remain high for at least a few weeks. If
your pre-existing anatomy has your breast creases or breast folds at different
positions, they implants will settle to different places. So your preoperative
anatomy has a lot to do with a final result. So does the skill of your plastic
surgeon, size of breast implants, saline and silicone settle differently, skin
quality and activity levels. You are still early so give it some more time. It
may take 2-4 months to really see where you are.

Best wishes,

Dr. Michael J. Brown 
Northern Virginia Breast Augmentation

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

ONKY 2 weeks postop! Allow 3 months healing before seeking reasons for areas of swelling or other issues. Sounds like your chosen surgeon is being very attentive!

Follow up: Is a bump that feels like a bubble or water balloon normal to feel 2 weeks after surgery? (photos)

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