How long does it take for breast implants to even out?

Question

I'm 5 weeks post-op. My left has been noticeably higher (1/2 inch) than my right since day one. They're both looking better, but I just want them to even out. How long should this take? Some doctors are saying 6 months. Others say the final result is about 6 weeks. I don't understand how there can be such a discrepancy among plastic surgeons regarding this question.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

The final appearance, shape, and movement are not exactly the same as normal breasts. The surgically enlarged breasts do not move in the same way as normal breasts. They tend to be firmer. The contours are usually somewhat different than normal breasts. In some patients these discrepancies may be rather noticeable. Although every effort is made to place the implants symmetrically, complete symmetry is rarely achieved. Immediately after surgery, the breasts are swollen and firmer. The final shape and size is approximated after 2 to 3 months, but up to one year may be required for the end result.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,There is no single timeline for healing that all people take after breast augmentation.  There is a median or average, which is probably around 3-6 months, but the outliers on this bell curve can be from 6 weeks to 12 months. However, like the bell curve indicates, fewer and fewer people exist at either side of the median.You have an issue that may or may not fix itself. I would wait 6 months and not 6 weeks before entertaining reoperation. Best of luck!

Susan Kaweski, MD · Answer

It takes 6-12 months for the breasts to completely settle. That is why I tell my patients not to buy an expensive bra until complete healing has occurred. What you might want to do is use your bandeau to put a little more pressure on the side which is higher. This might just do the trick.

Mark Schoemann, MD · Answer

Congratulations on
having undergone the breast augmentation procedure. I ask my patients to wait
3-6 months before evaluating the end results of the breast augmentation
surgery. This waiting time allows patients to adapt to the changes in their breast size
and shape as well as their overall new body image. There are a
significant percentage of patients at your stage of recovery that feel that
they are too big or (more commonly) too small. And those emotional feelings can
change daily turning this transitional time. Remember also that each
side of the body heals at a different rate and that you weren't perfectly
asymmetric to begin with so although you should be closer in symmetry there
will always be differences.
It can take many months to see the
final results of surgery. Swelling, soreness, skin repositioning, implant
settling must resolve completely before you can make that determination. Once
the swelling around the implants has also resolved you can see the final
result. Patients often report that they are happier with the implants' shape
their cleavage and projection once these changes occur.

How long does it take for breast implants to even out?

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants

Answer: Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants

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How long does it take for breast implants to even out?

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants

Answer: Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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