When to start massaging your breast after an augmentation? (Photo)

Thank you for your question! For my patients having a breast augmentation, I instruct them to start breast massages 1 weeks post surgery. These massages help the implants settle into their final position faster. I recommend discussing specific massage techniques with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

Hi newlife1204, I understand your concern. However, every plastic surgeon has his/her preferred post op instructions which would include breast massages. It would be best that you contact your plastic surgeon, so he/she can give you the best advice for your post op recovery, as this would depend on several factors including the type of surgery performed and the type of implant used. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery 
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I would contact your plastic surgeon's office. Every surgeon has their own post-op instructions and someone in the office should be able to advise you accordingly.Best of luck!

I always recommend following your surgeons postoperative instructions. In my practice, we generally initiate massage one week after surgery, although this may vary depending on type of implant and wether a lift or other procedure was performed. I believe this helps reduce discomfort and swelling and helps to prevent capsule contracture. Delaying a week will not have any adverse effects.

Thank you for your question - postop care is a common concern especially if your surgeon is out for a bit.  It is best to wait until you see your surgeon and you won't be losing any ground.  Many surgeons wait a few weeks to allow the incisions to heal and swelling to subside before starting the massage part of recovery.  There is plenty of time so don't feel like you are falling behind.  Best wishes on a speedy recovery and great result!

Wait until you see your surgeon at your next visit. They can demonstrate their desired technique of breast massage to you so that you perform it in concert with their guidelines.

Dear newlife1204,Thank you for your question. Every plastic surgeon is different in their protocol. I usually don't need or advocate implant massage for my patients, and some surgeons believe it can cause fluid buildup. Your surgeon's office should know his normal protocol and be able to guide you. Good luck.Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.Certified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic Surgeons

I would recommend contacting your surgeon's office for advice.  It may be that another physician or your surgeon's nurse may be able to teach you the massage technique preferred by your surgeon.  It is highly unlikely that your result will be affected if you have to wait another week before beginning massage.

Hi and thanks for your question.  Every plastic surgeon is slightly different in their protocols but I typically recommend that my patients start breast implant massage a week after the operation.  I explain it as if you are going to the gym and perform it in reps and sets.  I get my patients to push them together and push them up, holding each direction for a 10 count and do three of these 10 counts  This is to be done at least once a day.  The best place to do it is in the shower.  Hope this helps!

I responded to your earlier question as: "I read all your postings. Your questions need to be addressed by your chosen operative surgeon in an in person follow up. RIGHT!! you saw him (the PS) in his private office than switched to a clinic setting using him as the operative surgeon.  Do you really took he cares to see you? Or cares for your concerns? You went the cheap route - concept 'you get what you pay for'. Call this clinic, which is under investigation anyway, to try to see him or another MD working there as an independent contractor. Good Luck..."