One year post op - my breasts look smaller after they have dropped. What could have caused this?

Question

A year ago I had breast augmentation my original bra size with 34 a I went to a medium 34 c. I went with a 365 cc after doing research and finding out that that was a medium to large increase. Could my muscle mass have something to do with them appearing smaller? also i am 5’7 120lbs

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

In my experience, this is a common perception after breast augmentation. Early swelling and upper-pole fullness can make the breasts look larger at first; as the implants settle and the tissues relax, the result often looks softer, lower, and sometimes smaller even though the implant volume has not changed.
Muscle mass usually does not make the implant shrink, but submuscular placement, chest width, skin stretch, and implant profile can affect how much projection you see. At one year, an exam can confirm whether the position and pocket are stable.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Prior to implants dropping, there is more upper pole fullness.  This fullness decreases as the implants drop and settle into their final position.  This may give the appearance there has been a decrease in volume.  Also, if you have lost any weight, this decreases your breast size as well.  Follow up with your plastic surgeon and express your concerns.  An exchange to a larger implant may give you the final result you are seeking.  Best wishes.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bobbiesforme,

I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sean Hill, MD · Answer

Answer from Dr. Sean Hill, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon – Lone Star Plastic Surgery (Frisco, TX):
What you’re describing is actually a very common experience around the 6–12 month mark after breast augmentation &mdash; and in many cases, it’s a normal part of the healing process rather than a problem.
⸻

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon for patients to note a loss of volume/projection post augmentation once the initial swelling subsides. The pressure of the overlying muscle is also responsible for the difference between sizers in a bra and implants in a patient.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Kadir Berat Oyur, MD · Answer

It is quite common for patients to feel that their implants appear smaller than anticipated once the initial swelling subsides, especially when they have an athletic build. At 5'7" and 120 lbs, you have a relatively tall and slender frame, which can easily "absorb" the volume of a 365cc implant, making it look more natural rather than oversized. Your muscle mass certainly plays a role; if the implants were placed under the muscle, the pectoralis can compress the implant slightly or sit more firmly over it, which often results in a more subtle, teardrop-shaped projection rather than a very prominent roundness. Additionally, because you are lean, your body lacks the extra fatty tissue that sometimes adds to the overall perceived "fluff" and volume of the breast, meaning you are seeing the 365cc volume exactly as it is without much supplemental tissue to enhance the size.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to say what may have caused your concern without photos or further discussion with you.  Some potential causes are that the swelling has resolved and the implants are settled which gives a less "full" look than right after surgery.  Other changes could be weight fluctuation or skin elasticity.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

If you want an assessment, you need to show what’s proper before and after pictures. In paragraph if you have saline implants, maybe there is a leak in your implant?
I suggest you follow up with your plastic surgeon.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

One year post op - my breasts look smaller after they have dropped. What could have caused this?

Answers (8)

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