Is it normal for softness to fluctuate 2 weeks after breast augmentation?

Question

I got a breast augmentation silicone under the muscle two wks ago. It felt like it was softening but I think after leaning on my arms a little bit yesterday, they felt harder, particular on the side and lower region. They're not super hard and feel softer when I don't sit up straight. I've been massaging but I'm a little worried about whether or not it's normal for the softness to fluctuate. They started feeling firmer directly after I used my arms and still feel firm now (next day).

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

It is quite normal for the firmness of the breasts to fluctuate after surgery for some time. Initially they are quite swollen and firm, and as the swelling diminishes, they soften. I generally have my patients begin massaging one week after surgery and believe this helps this process as well as reduce the discomfort. They may become firmer after using your arms or at the end of the day, but this should respond readily to massaging.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are still early in the post-operative period. It typically takes 3 - 6 months for the swelling to subside and and implants to settle into proper position. Please discuss your concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon. Also, make sure you follow all of your plastic surgeons post-operative instructions regarding level of physical activity and use of a support bra. Hope this helps and good luck with your recovery.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

At 2 weeks, you are very early in your healing phase so swelling may fluctuate with activity level. As the swelling resolves, your breasts will soften. I typically advise my patients to wait a good 4-6 months to allow ALL the swelling to resolve and to let the implants drop and settle some. If you are still worried, best to see your operating surgeon so you can be evaluated in person. Good luck!

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Your breasts will undergo many changes in the first one-two months after your surgery. What your describing sounds like an uneventful recovery, but when there are concerns it's best to check with your surgeon so that they can advise you. They may want you to come to the office for a quick check to make sure that everything is okay. Congratulations on your recent surgery.

Thomas S. Taylor, FACS · Answer

Your breasts will go through a lot of changes over the next several months in terms of look, size and feel.  When implants are placed under the muscle it takes much longer for them to reach their final size, shape and feel as compared to over the muscle. Your muscle initially resists the implant and squeezes back against the implant causing it to flatten, look high, and feel firm.  Over time, and it can take months, the muscle loses the battle against the implant and stretches out allowing the implant to settle into its proper position and feel softer. It sounds like everything is on track for you but confirm with your surgeon.  I hope this information was helpful!Thomas Taylor, MD, FACSPasadena, CA

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your breast augmentation surgery.  What you are describing is fairly consistent with an uneventful recovery.  Everything sounds like that way things should be.  On the unlikely chance that you have some blood collected in the area, I would touch base with your plastic surgeon to examine you.  Again this is very remove, but always better to be safe.Continue with your regular follow ups and your massaging.Congrats once again.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and as long as they are not acutely changing in size, all symptoms are technically 'normal'.  Continue to relay your concerns to your surgeon as you recover and allow him/her to provide you the reassurances you need to help you through the recovery process.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Intermittent swelling changes will cause areas of firmness and softness as it fluctuates. ...........................

Ravinder Jarial, DO · Answer

Greetings.  You are still early in the postoperative period and these changes are to be expected at this time.  There will be changes over the next few months as this is not the final result.  Make sure to follow up with your surgeon and continue to follow the postoperative instructions.  Best wishes.

Vinod V. Pathy, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very common to experience what you are describing following an augmentation under the muscle.  You may experience periods of firmness following activities that engage your chest muscles.   Also, residual swelling may contribute to feelings of firmness and may last for an additional few weeks if not 2-3 months.  If  your symptoms persist or worsen, please contact your surgeon to discuss your concerns.  Best of luck..and congratulations!

Is it normal for softness to fluctuate 2 weeks after breast augmentation?

Answers (11)

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