Posted December 28, 2012 in Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants, Plastic Surgery
I hear this question at least a few times a week. Yes, all breast implants start out too high and too tight. And yes, they do relax, soften, and settle to a more natural position.
What’s going on? When implants are first placed, the skin and pectoralis muscle are placed under tension by the implants. The skin will look tight and shiny, and the muscle will contract against the implants, displacing them upward (Figure 2). Within a month or two of surgery, the skin and muscle will stretch and relax, causing the implants to feel softer. The muscle will release its grip on the implants, allowing them to fall (Figure 3). Even at a month after surgery, the implants will not reach their final softness or position; it will actually take about six months (Figure 4).
If you’re wondering why we can’t just “put them in the right place to begin with,” consider that if your implants look just right on day #1 after surgery, they will probably look too low by six months after surgery. Ideally, we want your breast implants to start high and end up in just the right position.
If you have any questions or wish to schedule a free consultation call our office at (469) 467-0100.
Dr. Friedman is the Founder and Director of the West Plano Plastic Surgery Center on the campus of Presbyterian Hospital of Plano.