What are these ripples: I am 3 weeks post-op and went 410cc under the muscle. (Photos)

These ripples mainly indicate congestion and edema of the dermis of the skin. It usually occurs the first few days after surgery due to the increased pressure. It should subside with time. If you experience any symptoms of an infection such as redness or a fever, you should see your Doctor immediately.

Good question.  It appears that your stretch marks were most likely present prior to surgery and you are now noticing them due to the swelling that is causing them to look raised.  In time, these stretch marks will not look as pronounced as they are now.You are still very early in recovery and will need to allow some time for your swelling to subside and your breasts to settle. For now, I would encourage you to continue following your post-op instructions and follow-up visits with your board certified plastic surgeon.  Good luck! 

Dear  sunrise1013,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast augmentation surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process at 3 weeks  post op.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues around the implants are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides and the implants drop to their final position, you will be able to see the final result of your breast augmentation surgery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sunrise1013.   I appreciate your concern, but it appears from your photos that these are stretch marks that were probably present prior to the surgery which appear to be worse because of swelling from your operation. It is still quite early in your postoperative course and improvement over time should occur. Continue to follow up closely with your plastic surgeon and try to stay patient. Good luck. 

Thank you for providing the pictures.  It appears this is edema in the skin.  With time, this will improve.  I would follow the recommendations of your plastic surgeon.  Wearing a bra can provide support and compression to decrease the edema.  Dr. E Wright

The photo indicates that you’ve undergone an augmentation/mastopexy, not a simple augmentation. Usually this procedure requires significant skin undermining, which is associated with skin swelling (edema) after surgery. Any compression (brassiere) on top of that will cause ripples. This should resolve by 6 weeks. If concerned, see your plastic surgeon. 

Thank you for your question. They look like a stretch marks with edema(swelling).  Because it is weaker skin it is pushed out like a cord. They look more prominent after surgery and usually get better was swelling goes down. Continue to follow up with your PS