How long for sub muscular implants to "soften?" (photos)

Question

Textured, submuscular, 330&385, still top heavy and very hard. How long for them to soften (was told not to massage when I expressed concern to my PS). 6 weeks post op on Monday.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

At
this point in your recovery, it is much too soon to be worried about the
outcome.  It takes time for the implants to settle into position and the
skin and muscle to stretch out to accommodate the new implant.  It may be
6 months or more before the shape has reached its final look.  Be patient.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your picture. The tissues surrounding the implants may relax in the next 6-12 weeks.

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It all depends on several factors such as your body tissues, the size of the implants, above or below the muscle and the approach and technique used by your surgeon.  I tell my patients to expect the implants to be firm and high for 1-3 months and expect their final shape and softness by 6 months (of course not everyone's body follows my predictions).  Listen to your surgeon.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

Breast implants can take several months to soften. Often, one starts to see Softening of the implants at around 12 to 14 weeks following surgery. This has to do with the physiology of the normal scar formation when one is healing. Sometimes, softening can take more than six months. Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon who may advocate techniques such as massage to speed up the process.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

It will take 3-6 months for you to feel comfortable having implants in your body and for them to settle.  This time allows for you to physically and psychologically adapt to your new body image.  Please do reiterate your concerns to your Surgeon so he/she can examine you.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

best of luck!

Dr Schwartz

Ernest Layton, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I usually tell my patients that it can take up to 4-6 months for the breast to fall into placement and feel soft.  I also recommend them to massage their  breast implants if they have smooth implants.  Typically it can sometimes take a little longer for textured implants to settle down.  If you have concerns you need to share these with your PS.Best wishes,Ernie Layton, MD

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast augmentation   procedure.  I routinely ask my patients to wait at least 3-6 months before evaluating the end results of the breast augmentation surgery. This waiting time allows patients to (usually) physically and psychologically adapt to the new body image. It may take this period of time for the breast to soften and for the breast implants to settle ("drop and fluff").

From the physiological standpoint, it takes many months ( and even up to one year) to see the final results of surgery. factors such as swelling, tissue contraction, skin redraping, implant shifting etc. come into play.

From the psychological standpoint, patients undergo an “adaptation period" during which time they get used to the changes that the surgical procedure has brought about. Severe emotional swings can also occur after any type of surgical procedure.
In your case, I would suggest continued patience and continued close follow-up with your plastic surgeon.
Best wishes.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, sarac428.  Thanks for your question and photo.  It take about 6 weeks for swelling to decrease.  It may take up to 6 months for implants to settle in their pockets.  The rate of settling varies among patients depends on the tightness of your skin/muscle/activity level as well as implant pocket plane.  Please give some more time.  Best wishes.

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

The implants will gradually soften as the skin and muscle relax and accomodate the implant.  Final result can be seen at 6 months.  All the best.

William Georgis, MD · Answer

It usually takes about three to six months for the implants to assume their ultimate position.  If you have concerns, you should contact your surgeon and make an appointment.  The plastic surgeon may have recommendations on modifying your outcome such as massage.  Remember, your surgeon wants you happy with your outcome.  Never hesitate to contact the office to make an appointment to address concerns.

How long for sub muscular implants to "soften?" (photos)

Answers (15)

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