The amount of time it takes for implants to soften largely depends on the type of implants used and the individual’s body. Generally speaking, implants placed directly under the muscle can take several weeks to soften.
Softening begins as the body begins to accept the implants and the capsule tissue surrounding the implants begins to stretch and thin. However, the process of softening can take anywhere from 3-6 months and is an ongoing process.
There are also certain factors that can affect the amount of time it takes for implants to soften, including the placement of the implant (submuscular, subglandular, dual plane) and individual factors like skin elasticity and body composition.
Ultimately, it’s important to stay in close contact with your plastic surgeon in order to monitor the softening process and ensure the best results.
Do breast implants get softer over time?
Yes, breast implants can get softer over time. This is due to the nature of the material the implants are made of, which has a small amount of malleability when placed in the body. Over time, regular body movements, gravity, and weight changes can cause the implants to conform to the body and create a softer, more natural look and feel.
The softening process can take a few weeks to a few months and, in some cases, years to reach the desired softness and shape. As with any medical procedure, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for more information about potential changes to the implants over time.
When do breast implants start to soften?
Breast implants typically start to soften and settle several weeks after surgery. As the body starts to heal and adjust to the implant, the rubber-like shell of the implant will relax and become less palpable.
This settling process can actually be quite variable, and the implant may take several months to reach the desired overall feel and shape. Factors such as the size or placement of the implant and the patient’s own body type can influence how long the softening process takes to complete, and even with modifications prior to surgery, it can take some gentlemen several months before they feel like the implant has settled into place, and the new look has fully settled in.
When will my implants drop and soften?
It can take several months for your implants to drop and soften after your breast augmentation surgery. In general, the first few weeks post-surgery can be quite uncomfortable, as your body adjusts to the implants and heals.
During the first few weeks, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, and your breasts may still be somewhat firm. As your body adjusts to the implants and the swelling reduces, your breasts will gradually drop and soften.
Over the course of the next few months, you may continue to notice subtle changes in your shape and feel as the swelling subsides and your implants drop into a more natural position. This process will depend on a variety of individual factors, such as the size of the implants and your body type.
It can take up to 3-4 months for the implants to settle into a natural position and for them to look and feel softer.
If you are concerned at any point during the healing process, it can be helpful to discuss your recovery with your plastic surgeon. They will be able to monitor the progress of your healing and provide guidance on what to expect during the recovery period.
How do I keep my breast implants soft?
Keeping your breast implants soft requires proper care and maintenance. It is important to discuss these care instructions with your doctor before you have surgery so you know what to expect after the procedure.
Here are some tips for keeping your breast implants soft:
• Wear a supportive bra: After your breast implant procedure, it is important to wear a supportive bra that is the correct size for you. This will help reduce swelling, promote healing, and will support your implants for longer.
A sports or leisure bra is ideal for this.
• Avoid strenuous activities: Immediately following surgery, it is important to avoid exercise, heavy lifting, and any other strenuous activities that could put pressure on your implants and cause them to move or shift.
Your doctor will likely give you specific instructions on when you can resume your activities after your surgery.
• Massage your implants: Massaging your implants regularly can help keep them feeling pliable and soft. Ask your doctor or breast implant specialist to show you how to perform the massage properly.
• Stay hydrated: Keeping your body hydrated is important for keeping your implants soft as well as promoting overall health. Drinking adequate amounts of water helps keep your breasts supple and soft.
• Follow up with your doctor: It is important to attend your follow-up appointments with your doctor after the procedure. He or she will be able to monitor the healing of your implants and identify any changes that should be addressed.
Will my implants look bigger once they drop?
It is common for implants to drop, or settle, over time since the breast tissue and muscle usually take some time to adjust to them. While the size of the implants may not change, the appearance may be different.
Depending on the type and size of the implants, you may experience some downward and outward movement of the implants relative to your chest. This can give your breasts a slightly larger look and fuller projection.
Your surgeon can help you determine the specific outcome you can expect from your particular type of implants. Ultimately, the result from surgery depends on the type of implant used, the placement of them within your chest, and the type of surgical technique used.
Generally speaking, you can expect the implants to drop within a few months of your surgery, with the final result of the procedure showing after 6-12 months.
Do breast implants look smaller before they drop?
Yes, breast implants may look smaller before they “drop” or settle into their chests. After getting breast augmentation surgery, it is common for patients to experience imbalances in their look as the implants never immediately fall into the same position.
In addition, the implant may appear smaller on the side that initially drops because the other breast is still in a lifted position.
The implant will eventually drop and settle evenly into the chest cavity as it is helped along by the tissue and muscle strength of the chest wall. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to months depending on the individual’s body type.
During this time, there are a few strategies to help alleviate the imbalance including: wearing a breast support bra, massaging the implant pocket, and also doing specific exercises and postural changes to help encourage the implant to drop.
It is important to consult with your plastic surgeon to determine the best way to help with this transition. All of these strategies together can help to facilitate the dropping process, allowing the implants to settle more evenly and naturally into place.
Ultimately, you should give yourself the time to relax and allow your body to heal. This can take a few weeks to a few months, but is well worth it in the end as the implants become much more natural and symmetrical when they finally drop.
When will I not feel my breast implants?
In the first few weeks immediately after your breast implant procedure, you may not feel the implants due to the swelling in the area and the medications used during the surgery. As the inflammation and swelling subsides, you will be able to feel the implants.
In some cases, the implants may be a little tender while they are settling and this should normalize after a short period of time. After a few months, you should be able to feel the implants firmly as they have settled into your body’s tissues.
Additionally, after years’ worth of wear, the implants may become slightly more wrinkled or feel softer and less firm to the touch. However, it’s important to remember that the shape and position of the implants may not remain the same over time.
It’s also important to have regular checkups with your plastic surgeon to ensure that the implants are safe and secure.
How do you soften capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery and can cause significant discomfort. The most effective way to treat and soften capsular contracture is to undergo a capsulotomy.
This is a procedure where the fibrous capsule around the implant is cut, allowing the implant to freely move within the pocket and reducing the symptoms associated with capsular contracture. Depending on the severity of the contracture and your particular situation, your surgeon may recommend a complete removal of the capsule surrounding the implant.
This allows for a complete reconstruction of the pocket and complete repositioning of the implant. Your plastic surgeon may recommend the use of a textured-surface implant in order to reduce the risk of a future capsular contracture, or a move to a different type of implant.
In addition to this surgery, post-operative physical therapy or massage techniques may be recommended as part of the treatment plan to help keep the implant soft and reduce future contracture. It is important to follow the particular post-operative recommendations set forth by your plastic surgeon in order to maximize the benefits of your surgery and ensure the most successful outcomes.