How Long Does It Take for All of the Swelling to Go Down After Breast Augmentation

Question

I'm 5'4" 128 pounds. Pre-op B/C cup. At pre-op appointment they had me try on standard profile saline sizers, I thought 500-550cc looked best and PS thought 600cc. I wanted was to be a DD. I went under the muscle, crease incision, silcone and PS said he only uses HP. 6 days post-op I measured 34DD, 15 days post-op I'm measuring 34F. I can't put my arms down because implant is sticking out of my armpits. I'm not happy they're way too big. How much swelling goes down and how fast??

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

When implants are first inserted, they sit high up because your tissues are tight and gravity hasn't taken effect. Over time, natural tissue expansion occurs to allow the implants to fall into place. By this time, your breasts will have taken on a more natural contour, where the lower breasts become softer and rounder. Please wait at least four months for this to happen.

Jennifer Lauren Crawford, MD · Answer

I certainly feel that swelling persists in the tissue following breast augmentation for a few months. I usually don't find that the swelling produces extra cup sizes, but it is possible. If the onset of this intense swelling has been somewhat sudden, I would see your plastic surgeon to make sure that there is no sign of bleeding or hematoma (blood collection). If all appears well, then it may take 3 months or more to truly appreciate the end size. I will say that for your height and weight, an implant in that size range is very generous and you will look large for your frame with or without swelling. It will not be unusual for you to feel the edge of the implant against your arm when it is against your body. That is an issue you may have to accept if you decide to keep implants in that range.

Paul C. Dillon, MD · Answer

Hi, Thank you for your question.
Bruising and swelling is normal after a breast augmentation procedure. 
 Typically, it can take anywhere up to 3 months for bruising and swelling to subside.  Please keep in mind that each patient heals differently and the time frame for healing can vary.   Compressing the breasts with a compressive bra helps with swelling Bruising will go away with time as time is the key for healing.  Below I have provided you with a link for a compression bra and stabilizer strap that we require our patients here to purchase after their breast augmentation procedures.  
Hopes this helps,  
Dr. Dillon

Steven Zoellner, MD · Answer

Thank You for your question.  It is common and expected to experience swelling after breast augmentation surgery.  Every patient is different in the degree of swelling they may experience.  Typically in my practice I tell my patients that the swelling will continue to decrease week by week but may be present for up to 6 weeks post surgery.  Normally around 3 months plus is when you will see your actual cup size/result.

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank
you for your question. I have included some typical expectations of breast
surgery recovery and signs to watch for following breast augmentation:
Stiffness, swelling
and bruising in the chest region: These are normal experiences as the skin,
muscles and tissue heal. Pain medication and muscle relaxants will help you
cope with any discomfort. Consistent sharp pain should be reported to your
board-certified surgeon.Hypersensitivity of
nipples or lack of sensitivity: This is normal and will gradually resolve over
time.A mild to severe itchy
feeling of the breasts is possible as healing progresses. An antihistamine like
Benadryl can help to alleviate severe, constant itchiness. If the skin becomes
red and hot to the touch, contact your board-certified surgeon
immediately.Asymmetry, the breasts
look different, or heal differently: Breasts may look or feel quite different
from one another in the days following surgery. This is normal. No two breasts
in nature or following surgery are perfectly symmetrical.Discuss returning to
work with your board-certified surgeon, in our office it is typically 3-5
days post-surgery but you may not overexert yourself or do any heavy lifting.You may resume
exercise and your normal routine at six weeks unless your surgeon advises
otherwise.Most of your swelling should subside around the six week mark. It is important to be patient and follow up with your board-certified surgeon with any concerns you may have. Best of luck.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Typically after Breast Augmentation the Breasts are swollen and the Breast Implant rides high for about 3 months. Usually by three months the Breast Implants have settled and reach a more natural shape and size.

	Extra sweling and high riding Breast Implants are more common after the placement of very large Breast Implants, and 600cc is considered a large Breast Implant.

	Be sure to see your doctor who performed your Breast Augmentation and express your concerns.

How Long Does It Take for All of the Swelling to Go Down After Breast Augmentation

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