My chest is now concave after removing breast implants 6 days ago. How long will it take my chest to return to its normal shape?

Thank you for your question. After removing breast implants, especially if you have had implants for many years, your breasts may appear sunken in the immediate post-operative period. This is to be expected since over time the tissues have stretched and so the breasts will be more ptotic (droopy) without the volume of the implants beneath them. At times, the sudden loss of breast volume and flaccid remaining breast can be quite shocking however, with time, the breast shape will continue to improve over the next few months. That being said, it is often the case that if longstanding implants are removed and not replaced, a breast lift may be required to correct the ptosis. Hope this is helpful.

With a 42 year history of breast implants, what you are describing probably relates to a concavity in your rib cage from the pressure of the implants. This is not something that will resolve on its own over time. I'd suggest booking an appointment with your surgeon to be examined and discuss your concerns as they know your case better than anyone. Hope that helps! 

You will notice improvement in the shape of the breasts over the next 2-3 months however the changes to the chest wall are likely permanent.  Massage is often helpful in aiding the breasts to take the best shape they can.  As you have had implants for many years you will likely need a lifting procedure to improve shape.  See your surgeon to learn more.

Thank you for your great question!Your deformity (concave) will probably improve with time but some can persist.Patient that had implants for long period of time and then a removal may be candidate for a breast lift and/or fat grafting to reduce the deformation.Please consult a board certified plastic surgeon!Best Wishes
Dr Genevieve FCaron, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Montreal, Canada

Thank you for the question. I think you will find that your chest wall shape (concavity) will not change over time;  rib cage shape is permanent. On the other hand,  overall breast shape will likely improve over the course of the next several months.   In other words, patience is definitely indicated after removal of breast implants; it will take many months/year for the skin to “bounce back” and for you to see the final appearance of the breasts.Scar tissue or "adherence" concerns may benefit from massage of the tissues; run this question by your plastic surgeon who will be your best resource in this regard.Best wishes.