When will the chest tightness go away? (photo)

Question

I'm 2 weeks post op and i feel my chest a bit tight! My right breast is fine, no pain and getting a good shape! But the left breast feels a bit tight and is a bit higher than the right one! When will tightness go? I dont feel the tightness on the whole breast but only on a part of it.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. Great question! In time, your chest tightness will fade. The final #appearance, #shape, and #movement are not exactly the
same as normal breasts. The surgically enlarged breasts do not move in the same
way as normal breasts. They tend to be #firmer. The contours are usually
somewhat different than normal breasts. In some patients these discrepancies
may be rather noticeable. Although every effort is made to place the #implants
#symmetrically, complete symmetry is rarely achieved. Immediately after surgery,
the breasts are swollen and firmer. The final shape and size is approximated
after 2 to 3 months, but up to one year may be required for the end result. Sometimes one breast heals more quickly than the other. It just takes time for things to improve. I do recommend that you make sure your #BCPS is aware of your recovery concerns as he is the best one to provide care for you. Best wishes!

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, usually by about 6 weeks most of my patients feel well and are back to regular activities.  However, breasts will often soften for months after surgery.

Paul W. Papillion, MD · Answer

Hello, your tightness will improve with time. It can take several months before things soften as much as you like. Good Luck.

Stuart A. Linder, MD, FACS · Answer

It is expected that you will have tightness for several weeks but it should resolve nicely. Our patients are instructed to wear an upper compression pole and flexeril for reducing muscle spasm.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent surgery. . You are very early in the post-operative period and swelling is to be expected. It typically takes 3 - 6 months for the swelling to subside and the implants to settle into proper position. Swelling usually accounts for 10 - 15% of the initial post-operative appearance. The implants may swell asymmetrically, but usually settle evenly. 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.

When will the chest tightness go away? (photo)

Answers (8)