Can an Implant Still "Drop" After 6 Months? (photo)

Question

I am 6 months post-op, and my breasts are quite asymmetrical. I got 250cc sub-muscular on breasts that were already asymmetrical so I am not expecting perfect symmetry. At 2 months post-op I felt the left implant (right on photo) move downward and it now feels very natural. This has not happened for the right, however, and it is obviously still sitting much higher. What confuses me is that the bottom of the breast looks lower on the photos. If I massage can this still be corrected?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question! typical at the early stage, it will continue to improve as the swelling subsides and the implants continue to settle into their desired position. This usually proceeds over the next several weeks as the lower pole skin/breast stretches to accommodate the implants. Follow-up closely with your surgeon for additional restrictions/instructions and the potential use of bras/garments or massage that may encourage the implant to settle appropriately. Since still displaced after this time, a surgical procedure may be necessary to further open the pocket and bring the implant(s) down. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the photos.  It is a bit hard to comment on the asymmetry as we don't have one pre op.  There may have been some asymmetries that we are seeing more clearly now with the implants.  You are early in your post operative course.  Implants typically start to move downward at one month.  It may take 12 months for them finally to get into position.    This should also get better with time.  Please let your board certified plastic surgeon know your thoughts.  Please follow the recommendations that they might give you.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and picture.

	Although the majority of breast implant “settling” has already occurred, I have seen breast implants continue to change in position for the first year or so after surgery. Massage might help (can't hurt). 

	I would suggest continued follow-up with your plastic surgeon who is in the best position to rule out complications such as encapsulation (which may lead to an implant feeling more firm and/or not settling symmetrically).

	Best wishes.

Moneer Jaibaji, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, the breast will continue to change even after six months. But, how much it will drop is a matter time. It is very common after augmentation, to have one implant higher, firmer and probably more painful than the other. And with time these symptoms and sign tend to settle and the patient fells better and happier. From your pictures, I see good results. Even the asymmetry that you mention is not taking much from the overall shape. You could still massage it if it was firmer than the other side.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD · Answer

You have very good result from breast augmentation. Breast implants function is to enlarge the breast and correct minor asymmetry. Your picture shows that your right shoulder is much lower than the left side(minor scoliosis) and your right breast is also lower.This can not be corrected by revision and you will end up looking worse. Leave them alone and message will not help. Please go back to your surgeon and compare your before and after side by side.

Can an Implant Still "Drop" After 6 Months? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast implant dropping after 6 months

Answer: Breast implant dropping after 6 months

Answer: You have slight scloiosis and breast asymmetery is due to the original asymmetery

Answer: You have slight scloiosis and breast asymmetery is due to the original asymmetery

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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

Can an Implant Still "Drop" After 6 Months? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast implant dropping after 6 months

Answer: Breast implant dropping after 6 months

Answer: You have slight scloiosis and breast asymmetery is due to the original asymmetery

Answer: You have slight scloiosis and breast asymmetery is due to the original asymmetery

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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