3 weeks post-op: I still get air bubble/gurgling when I move or massage my breasts —is this a concern?

Question

I’ll be 3 weeks post op tomorrow and in my right breast I can feel air bubbles/gurgling, when I massage or move a specific way. This happens on and off. It is not painful but feels weird! Some days it doesn’t happen but then there’s some days where I feel it a lot.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi lindsay1210,
  
Thank you for your question and photos. It is not unusual to experience some air bubble noises after breast augmentation surgery. Also, tightness may also be experienced as the tissues around the implants are still swollen following the surgery. It will resolve over time. 
  
However, if you experience significant change in the size of your breast and that this symptom persists, it is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for an in-person examination. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

David C. Yao, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing. A mild air gurgle sound soon after surgery could occur but usually air is resorbed within a few days. If a patient chooses a saline implant then a small air bubble in the saline implant could theoretically be present but this is a lower possibility. Talk with your plastic surgeon. Best wishes!

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,This can only occur when there is air and fluid around your implants, which is definitely not an ideal situation.  The good news is air and fluid get absorbed. However, massaging your implants is not recommended; it will not prevent or treat capsular contracture, nor is it necessary for normal healing, but it can cause irritation and continued fluid exudation which will lead to capsular contracture. Stop massaging, its not necessary and it may be the cause of your current situation.

Steven Varkony, MD · Answer

Noises such as gurgling are common after breast surgery as
the implant settles into the pocket. It is important that you are following
your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure the best results. We
recommend consulting with your doctor to further discuss your concerns.

Eric YK Li, MD · Answer

It's not uncommon to have your symptoms this early after augmentation.  Any trapped air will eventually be absorbed by your body over time.  Therefore it's not a cause for concern.  Hope this helps!

3 weeks post-op: I still get air bubble/gurgling when I move or massage my breasts —is this a concern?

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Answer: Is this a concern?

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3 weeks post-op: I still get air bubble/gurgling when I move or massage my breasts —is this a concern?

Answers (5)

Answer: Is this a concern?

Answer: Is this a concern?

Answer: Air bubbling after augmentation

Answer: Air bubbling after augmentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.