Settling time for small subfascial implants?

Question

Hello! I'm about 8 days post-op for 225 moderate-plus sub-fascial implants, and this has definitely been an interesting ride. I'm still a little worried I went too large, but things are setting down. (Pre-surgery stats: 5'3" 108lbs, 32A) I think a lot of what I read refers to sub-muscular placement; do you have any advice on how long it generally takes sub-fascia implants to drop and fluff into a more "final" size?

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.

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

Generally speaking, especially early in the post-operative phase of healing, it is not uncommon to have one or both implants appear to be high up by the clavicle. Although the “pocket” may be made correctly, the implant may not have access to the bottom for several reasons. If the overlying muscle or skin is tight, this will move the implant to the path of least resistance which is up and towards the underarm where there is little or no pressure. As the pressure relaxes, the implant will drop down to the bottom.The sub facial plane does not dynamically contract and therefore will allow the implant to drop a little faster. The fastest to drop is when the implant is under the breast tissue. Smooth implants, because their surface is slippery, may move faster downward than a textured implant with its rough surface. Because these variables mentioned above can be different for each side, it's not uncommon that one side will drop faster to the bottom of the pocket than the other. Similarly, sometimes one breast will swell more than the other or be more painful than the other early in the postoperative phase. After the first month or two, usually things will even out. It wouldn't be, in my practice, until four months or so has passed that I would entertain going back to the operating room to “touch up” the location of the breast implant in the pocket. Sometimes specialized bras or straps as well as massage and stretching protocols may be helpful in allowing this process to happen more quickly. Each plastic surgeon will have different thoughts on what the best protocol is for the patient. Your operating plastic surgeon will be your best resource to have this information passed on to you. I recommend that you faithfully follow up and follow the instructions of your chosen plastic surgeon. Congratulations on your surgery, and good luck on an uneventful recovery.

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

You are early in recovery and your implants will drop and shape improve a lot over the first 6-12 weeks. It is too early to be concerned. Of course follow up with your surgeon. The subfascial can take a little longer to drop.

Settling time for small subfascial implants?

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