8 weeks post op: right breast higher and firmer? (photo)

Question

I'm 8 weeks post op ba, I had a slightly larger implant in my right breast to even out assymetry, my left breast is softening up great but my right is still so firm, and feels tight, do I need to just give it time? My surgeon & nurse don't seem worried

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

HEALING AFTER BREAST
SURGERY, AUGMENTATION, LIFTS

1.   
pain is variable

2.   
it takes 2-3 months for implants to settle and muscles to relax

3.   
celebrex, motrin, and muscle relaxers can help

4.   
massage and stretching may help

5.   
everyone heals differently

6.   
4-7 days off from work is common

HEALING OF SENSORY NERVES: Tingling, burning or shooting pains, which will disappear
with time and should not alarm you, indicate regeneration of the sensory
nerves. If these sensations cause pain, repeated, local self-massage helps.

ASYMMETRY: 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. You must
have patience, but if this causes concern, ask questions of the doctor or the
nursing staff.

SHAPE AND CONTOUR: The final shape of your breasts will start to look its
best approximately three (3) months after surgery. It takes time for the skin
and muscle to stretch and relax around the new implant. The breast will often
look higher, firmer, and “less natural” in the first three (3) months. It can
take up to a year to see your final result.

FOLLOW-UP EXAMS: These are generally done in 1 week, 2 to 3
weeks, 3 to 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months to 1 year, and 1-2 year intervals. In
our office we include all of your follow up appointments in the initial
surgical fee.

ALWAYS CONTACT YOUR PLASTIC
SURGEON IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT INFECTION, BLEEDING, SWELLING, FEVER,
EXCESSIVE BRUISING, OR ANY NEW AND SUDDEN CHANGES IN THE FEELING OR LOOK OF
YOUR BREASTS/IMPLANTS.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph and it looks as if you will have a very nice result.  At 8 weeks after surgery it is not uncommon to still have swelling in your breast tissue and chest muscle that can maintain your implants elevated and flattened against your chest.  As this swelling resolves you should see the right side "catch-up" with your left to improve upon your result.  Hang in there and remember that long term results can take up to 6 months.  Hope this helps.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

It's not unusual to have some asymmetric breasts at 8 weeks postoperative, especially with larger breast implants. The extra firmness brings to mind the possibility of an early capsule tightness. I suggest you have an examination with your plastic surgeon soon for an appropriate diagnosis. Best wishes, Dr. Aldo

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.

Robert Graper, MD · Answer

From  the image is looks fine and if the implant is larger it wont move around in the pocket as well as the other side because there is not as much room to move. Good luck

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The smaller breast is often tighter to begin with and will get a larger breast implant. This can lead to more time need to settle and to stretch.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Please give some time as it is larger than other. Follow instructions from your PS

Victor Ferrari, MD, FACS · Answer

Without more details, it's hard to answer your questions.  If your PS had to put a lot more volume in your right implant, then it's likely that the right side will always feel firmer than the left.  Also, a pre-op photo would have been helpful.  If your right side started out much higher than the left before surgery, then there is a good chance it may always be slightly higher.  Either way, it's still too early to be concerned unless your PS somehow thinks you have a capsular contracture on the right side.

Peter Newen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, Thank you for the questions and photos you have submitted. I suggest to be patient as you are still early on in the healing process, It can take 6 - 12 months to see your final result. Follow your Surgeons instructions and should you stay concerned then request to see your Doctor in person to be evaluated. Congratulations on your Surgery you look great.We wish you the best of luck!

Barry M. Schwartz, MD (retired) · Answer

You are very early in the healing period. I agree with your surgeon not to worry. The breast with the larger implant will feel firmer till it settles.

8 weeks post op: right breast higher and firmer? (photo)

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