I got breast implants, POD 2. Can I raise my hands above my head?

Question

Also, they are so perky, when will they drop? It seems they are very small and I don’t see much of a difference from my natural breasts. Will they settle and get bigger?

Jeffrey LaGrasso, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! I recommend patients to wait at least 3 months until implants fall into pocket. Since every doctor has different post-op instructions, I recommend your schedule a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there and thanks for your question.  I advise my patients to refrain from any exercise or heavy lifting/lifting arms for 4 weeks.Typically it takes about 3 weeks up to 3 months for the implants to drop. Once they fall into their pocket, your breasts should appear fuller.  I suggest seeing your plastic surgeon for regular follow ups to ensure a smooth recovery. Best of luck!

Scott Reis, MD · Answer

In general I tell my patients to avoid raising their hands over their head for 2 weeks and to avoid lifting overhead for a month. This is definitely something that you should discuss with your surgeon, since only he/she knows the specifics of your case and exactly what was done/required post op. At post op day 2, expect the implants to rise to an even higher position on your chest and then to really begin to settle into place after about 4-6 weeks and not reach a stable final position for 3-4 months. Again this is a very basic and important question to discuss further with your surgeon

Keith Hodge, MD · Answer

Yes, you can raise your arms above your head after a breast augmentation, just take your time and move slowly. The implants are high in the early post-op period, and some women feel that they are also under their arm to some degree. That is temporary. As the the muscle relaxes, the implants will drop and become more mobile and soft. Good luck!

Susan D. Vasko, MD, FACS · Answer

I usually recommend that my patients do not, or try not to, raise their arms over shoulder height for 2 weeks after a breast augmentation. However, you should ask your surgeon and follow their instructions. Implants sit high initially after surgery, and can take up to 3 months to settle and soften into the pocket.

Marc J. Salzman, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

For our patients, after breast augmentation I will allow them to lift their arms over their head slowly whenever they're comfortable. Your plastic surgeon may feel differently. Also, it may take 4 to 6 weeks for the overlying soft tissues to soften to allow the implants to drop into thier proper location and produce a more flattering result. Be patient and follow up with your chosen plastic surgeon. Congratulations on your surgery

I got breast implants, POD 2. Can I raise my hands above my head?

Answers (6)

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