3 weeks post-op explant and lift. Is this normal? (photo)

You are healing well and should wait until swelling and bruising completely resolves.  At that point you may benefit if needed from a some skin recontouring to improve the shape and symmetry of both breasts. 

Hi Ramnath5899,

I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast lift surgery. However, you are still in the 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 operated area are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides, you will be able to see the final result of your breast lift surgery.

But if you are still concerned, you can always visit your plastic surgeon and discuss your concerns. This way, you will be reassured. Also, if after six months, you are not satisfied with the appearance of your breast, you can visit your plastic surgeon and discuss the possibility of revision surgery.

Lastly, follow your plastic surgeons post-operative instructions and advice for faster healing and recovery.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Explant and lifts can be very difficult procedures to get a good result due to the loss of volume and difficulty getting "roundness back". You have a very nice early result. The more bruised swollen side will settle with time. The lower part of each breast should round a bit over time. If you ever want to increase volume in future, you should discuss fat transfer with your plastic surgeon. Good luck.

It is still very early postop and it will take at least 3-6 months before you will be able to judge the result. Keep in touch with your PS as everything looks to be healing appropriately.

The flat wide look will not go away with time.You could graft some fat into your breast or do a secondary lift down the road.

Either you did not understand the process or operation or you were not fully explained that this surgery of explantation, capsulectomies and full lift does not offer perfect symmetry! To me the result appears very acceptable, but no before photos to compare. If so concerned why not see your operative surgeon on Monday?