Uneven swelling after breast augmentation? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast augmentation 4 days ago (submuscular, 275cc, moderate plus profile, round and textured). One day after surgery I noticed the left breast being much larger, 2 days after it was even more obvious and hasn't improved since. Surgeon says I need to be patient for swelling to go down, but is it normal that the swelling is so asymmetric? I have scoliosis and my right pec hurts more( maybe because it's stronger?) than the left one and also feels firmer than the left one.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi sdanis
  
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast augmentation surgery. However, you are still in the early stages of the healing process at 4 days post op. 
  
Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively. 
  
At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues around the implants are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides and the implants drop to their final position, you will be able to see the final result of your breast augmentation surgery. 
  
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. Also, your breasts can drop at different rates. 
  
But if you are still concerned, you can always visit your plastic surgeon and discuss your concerns. This way, you will be reassured. Also, if after six months, you are not satisfied with the appearance of your breast, you can visit your plastic surgeon and discuss the possibility of revision surgery. 
  
Lastly, follow your plastic surgeons post-operative instructions and advice for faster healing and recovery. 
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

It is very common to have some asymmetry in your breasts as they heal. They will often settle and decrease in swelling at different rates. It is always best to follow up with your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns as they are the best resource to assess your healing.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions& pictures.Yes, it is normal for there to be slight (minimal) differences in breast swelling after breast augmentation surgery. Important: ruling out complications (such as bleeding) that may present as differences in breast swelling.  Your plastic surgeon will be your best resource in this regard (accurate assessment, advice, and hopefully meaningful reassurance). 
Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Frank J. Ferraro, MD · Answer

The recovery process and details are discussed thoroughly prior to the procedure with my patients. They understand that the implants take time and unevenness can exist for a short time. We stay in touch and I see them frequently to detect a problem

Suleyman Tas, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Dear Realself user,You are very early in your recovery period so it may be that you have more swelling in one breast than the other. I would recomment to stay in touch with your surgeon and do not miss your post up appointments.Best of luck,
TAS Aesthetic Surgery Clinic

Uneven swelling after breast augmentation? (Photo)

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Uneven swelling after breast augmentation? (Photo)

Answers (7)

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