Do implant massages and exercises help with the healing process?

implant massage is proven to be non-superior to no implant massage. in other words, implant massage does nothing. it neither prevents or treats capsular contracture, nor is it necessary for normal healing and soft breast implants.

This is a controversial topic in the opinions of some.

However, studies have shown implant massage is unnecessary. Your surgeon will carefully place the implant where he/she wants it. Once that dissection is done, massage (without being specifically directed to do so) only increases the risk of malposition.

Massage will not reduce the risk of capsular contracture.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

It would take 3 months for implants to settle, in this period of time massaging would really help. So we would suggest you keep on with massaging. If it does not help after this period we would be happy to provide you a free consultation.

BTW, in my experience, it takes 6 weeks before the implants even start to settle and are about 75% settled at around 3 months. Then they slow down and require about another 9 months before they are completely settled. Sometimes, less than 3%, again in my experience, even after the most diligent massages, they might not drop all the way. If this happens, and if desired, it can be safely lowered more. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Yes, it does help. Early on the scar tissue, the capsule, around your implant is beginning to form. We have you do exercises to help keep the space open for the implant to move. Plus, under the muscle, the muscle has tightened and is holding the implant up higher. Massaging can help the muscle relax and let the implant settle down behind the breast.