Heavy chest after submuscular implants - is this common?

Question

Hi, I am due to have my procedure in September, a breast lift with implant. I am opting for sub muscle. I am nervous because I have been told by others who have had it done that you can feel a weight on your chest like an elephant is sitting on it. Is this common? How long does the weight last? I am asthmatic, managed fine and my surgeon has approved me with my asthma however I’m nervous I’ll be anxious I’ll not be able to breathe with the feeling of an elephant on my chest.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
 
Thank you for the question.
 
Breast implants are frequently placed under the muscle (known as submuscular plane) which can be associated with a feeling of tightness during the first 2-3 weeks.   In addition, patients are typically prescribed a muscle relaxant medication to alleviate the feeling of tightness.

It is uncommon to feel that you have "an elephant sitting on your chest". 
 
Implants can take take 6-12 months to settle fully into the their final position for the best cosmetic results. 
 
I would encourage you to discuss your questions and concerns with your Plastic Surgeon.
 
I hope this helps.
Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
 
Dr. Irena Karanetz
Breast Fellowship-Trained
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear paigerose,
breast implants should have no effect on your breathing and asthma. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

Not only is this sensation, and, it is almost expected. A usually only lasts a few days. In your situation, I think you would do very well and just have to concentrate on deep breaths and returning to normal activity as soon as possible.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There is some recovery to breast augmentation with a lift, but it is typically managed well with pain medication.  Patients are often able to return to a non physically demanding job within a week.  Feeling  sore is expected but you should not experience any trouble breathing.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Each day is better than the last.. easing up a lot by the 4th day and more than 90% of my patients say they are back to work by the 5th day in an office setting. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Heavy chest after submuscular implants - is this common?

Answers (8)

Answer: Heavy chest

Answer: Heavy chest

Answer: In my experience, tightness or discomfort for the first 3 days manageable with post op meds and...

Answer: In my experience, tightness or discomfort for the first 3 days manageable with post op meds and...

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Heavy chest after submuscular implants - is this common?

Answers (8)

Answer: Heavy chest

Answer: Heavy chest

Answer: In my experience, tightness or discomfort for the first 3 days manageable with post op meds and...

Answer: In my experience, tightness or discomfort for the first 3 days manageable with post op meds and...

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.