how long does it take for implants to drop

After breast augmentation, your breasts will evolve and change over the next several months. This is a process called implant settling. So, how long does it take for implants to drop? It happens to everyone and it does take time. Don’t be surprised if your newly implanted breasts aren’t exactly as you imagined they would be right when the bandages come off. It will take time for you to see the breast implant drop. Give those breast implants time to settle.

How long does it take for implants to drop into their final position? What can you expect in the weeks and months after your Charlotte breast augmentation surgery?

Breast Implants Start High

Right after breast augmentation, breasts often have a high, elevated appearance, especially if the implant was placed under the pectoral muscle. Your breasts may also look smaller than you were hoping for. At first, the muscle and breast tissues are tight, compressing your implant. In time, these tissues will relax and loosen, and the breast implant drop will occur and develop into a more natural-looking position. Your breast size may also increase slightly. Plastic surgeons sometimes call this “dropping and fluffing”. The breast implants drop into a lower position on the chest and expand in size as the pectoral muscle and breast tissues place less pressure on your implant.

If you’ve recently received breast implants and the positioning looks high, give it time. Your breasts haven’t yet achieved their final appearance. Keep in mind that depending on what breast surgery you may have had such as a breast implant exchange or breast lift  the final look of your breasts may vary.

How Long Does it Take for Implants to Drop?

There is no simple calculation for determining how long until your breast implants settle or drop. There are many different factors in play depending on the types of cosmetic surgery procedures you have. Give it time and know that most women are happy with their breast appearance by 6 weeks after surgery. One breast may settle before the other. This is normal and is nothing to be concerned about.

  • Implant Shape – Round implants, both saline and silicone, are more affected by the pressure that the pectoral muscle and breast tissues place on new implants. If you have round implants, you’re more likely to notice an elevated, squished breast appearance during those first few weeks after surgery.
  • Implant Position – Implants that are placed behind the pectoral muscle receive more compression than those that are placed above it. We’ll talk about the benefits of each type of implant placement.
  • Muscle Tone – Athletic patients with highly developed chest muscles may require more time for implant settling.
  • Post-Surgical Care – Massage may help breast implants to settle sooner. There are also medications that can speed the process. We’ll talk with you about your options and give detailed instructions for post-breast augmentation care.

Wait to Shop for New Lingerie

The settling and breast implant drop process takes time after breast surgery. Your breast size may change several times as you progress through the recovery process. Give it time, be patient, and wait to shop for a new lingerie wardrobe. We recommend waiting about three months before investing in a lot of new undergarments. By this time, the breasts are usually close to their final size and shape.

As you wait, avoid underwire bras. These can push up breast tissue and may keep your implants from settling properly.

Keep in Touch

Many patients feel nervous and unsettled about their breast appearance while they wait for settling to occur. The breast implant drop and settling is a normal process, but if you’re worried, get in touch. We are always happy to answer questions and alleviate concerns about body cosmetic surgery. We’re here for you! In the mean time, you can browse our breast surgery before and after photo gallery to see real client results.

Call to schedule your Charlotte breast augmentation consultation by calling H/K/B at 704-659-9000 or book a consultation here.