8 weeks post-op and my left breast implant (right in picture) is still high compared to my right. Should I be concerned? (photo)

Question

My right one is positioned just fine while the left implant is clearly much higher and you can see and feel my natural breast tissue pushed to the bottom. Is this normal and just a result of lefty taking longer to heal or should I be concerned about capsular contracture? I do not have any pain not is one noticeably harder than the other.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bossbabe87,
dropping of implants is part of the healing process and this occurs after the tissues surrounding the implants slowly relax, allowing the implants to settle into their final position. It can take about four to six months for the implant to drop down to their final position.I understand that you are worried about your implants are not dropping as expected. However, you are still in the early phase of the recovery period. Please do allow some time for the healing process to occur. If after six months, you are not satisfied with the appearance of your breast, you can visit your plastic surgeon and discuss your concerns.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Emily J. Kirby, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your decision to have breast augmentation! Eight weeks is still very early after breast surgery to evaluate the results. As your muscles relax, the breast implants will continue to settle and "fluff," looking different every day. These changes can occur for weeks to months after surgery. You might be left handed if your left pectoralis muscle is much tighter than the right. My patients are advised to minimize arm activity until the implants start to settle nicely. They proceed with leg and cardio routines, but avoid direct arm exercises many times. Give it time and don't be afraid to ask your board certified plastic surgeon/office for advice. Best of luck to you!

Marcus Davis, MBBS, MRM, FRCSEd (Plast) · Answer

Thank you for the question and picture.
I am looking at your picture and assuming that you had your implants inserted under your muscle. If this is the case then it can take several months for the implants to fully drop to their final resting positions, although the right side appears to be pretty much there. 
In order to definitively comment it would be helpful to have seen the pre-op pictures of your breasts. If you had the volume of your breasts set low down on your chest wall and then place the implants under the muscle then you can develop a double bubble where by the implant sits higher/in the correct position and the breast tissue drops off the bottom, creating the two mound, double bubble, effect. Try wearing no bra and using a breast band over the top to try to encourage the implant on the left side to drop further, but ultimately you should consult with your Plastic Surgeon for advice and reassurance.
I wish you well and congratulations on your surgery.
Best,
Marcus

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It will be helpful to see pre op pictures to comment. It is unlikely capsular contracture at this stage. Sometimes it will take more time one side than other. Please see your PS for evaluation.

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your surgery!

It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.

It is crucial to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is important for healthy results.

It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place. Should a revision cross your mind, it is best to wait at least 6 months to a year before doing so.

Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).

Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.

During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

8 weeks post-op and my left breast implant (right in picture) is still high compared to my right. Should I be concerned? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Asymmetry

Answer: Asymmetry

Answer: Recommendation

Answer: Recommendation

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.

8 weeks post-op and my left breast implant (right in picture) is still high compared to my right. Should I be concerned? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Asymmetry

Answer: Asymmetry

Answer: Recommendation

Answer: Recommendation

Browse related questions

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.