What Happens If You Don’t Massage Your Breast Implants?
Breast augmentation is a popular procedure, with nearly 300,000 surgeries performed in the United States each year. Many women have questions about post-op care, including whether or not to massage their breast implants.
Implant massage is often recommended to reduce the risk of capsular contracture, which occurs when scar tissue tightens around the implant. However, there is no clear evidence that implant massage is necessary or effective in preventing capsular contracture.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 75% of capsular contracture cases occur within the first 2 years after surgery. While implant massage may be advised by some surgeons, it is not recommended for textured implants as they are designed to “lock” into place as the capsule forms.
The decision to perform implant massage exercises should be made in consultation with your plastic surgeon, as every patient is unique. Aggressive massage early after surgery can cause problems, and there is no guarantee that it will prevent capsular contracture in all cases.
If implant massage is recommended, it typically involves moving the implants up, down, and side to side a few times a day for a few months after surgery.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and communicate any concerns or questions you may have.
The Role of Breast Massaging in Implant Settling and Positioning
After breast augmentation surgery, it is important to understand the role of breast massaging in the implant settling process and ensuring optimal implant positioning. The muscle tightens initially post-surgery, causing the breasts to appear excessively full. However, as the skin and muscle relax, the implants gradually “settle” into their final position.
Breast massaging, also known as implant displacement exercises, can aid in the settling process and help achieve symmetrical results. For saline implants or smooth, round silicone implants, massaging is typically recommended. It involves gentle movement of the implants up, down, and side to side, under the guidance of your plastic surgeon. This helps the implants move and settle under the muscle, contributing to a natural-looking appearance.
Managing Implant Firmness and Position Issues
Regular implant checkups and following your surgeon’s postoperative guidelines are crucial for maintaining breast implant health and longevity. During these checkups, your surgeon can assess the firmness of your implants and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results. It is normal for one implant to settle and soften before the other, but if you notice significant asymmetry or discomfort, it is important to consult your plastic surgeon.
Table: Tips for Implant Settling and Long-Term Positioning
| Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Follow your surgeon’s instructions | Adhere to the recommended implant massage techniques and postoperative care guidelines provided by your plastic surgeon. This will help optimize the settling process. |
| Be patient | Implant settling can take time, ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Give your body the necessary time to adjust and allow the implants to settle into their final position. |
| Maintain regular checkups | Regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are important for monitoring the health of your implants and addressing any concerns that may arise. |
| Communicate with your surgeon | If you experience any issues or have questions about your implant settling or positioning, do not hesitate to reach out to your plastic surgeon. They are best equipped to provide personalized guidance. |
By understanding the role of breast massaging in implant settling and following your surgeon’s instructions, you can help ensure optimal positioning, symmetry, and long-term success with your breast augmentation.
The Risks of Breast Implant Massage and the Importance of Individualized Approach
While breast implant massage is often recommended, it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved. Excessive massage in the early stages after surgery can increase the risk of bleeding or hematoma, which can hinder the healing process and potentially lead to complications.
A potential complication of breast augmentation is capsular contracture, which occurs when scar tissue tightens around the implant. This can cause firmness, misshapen breasts, nipple changes, and even pain. Although some studies suggest that implant massage may help reduce the risk of capsular contracture, the research is limited and inconclusive.
Every patient is unique, and an individualized approach is crucial when considering breast implant massage. Factors such as the type of implants used and the surgical technique employed should be taken into account. It is important to consult with your plastic surgeon to determine whether breast implant massage is recommended for your specific case.
Following your plastic surgeon’s recommendations for postoperative care is essential to ensure a safe and successful recovery. If you have any concerns or questions about breast implant massage or any other aspect of your recovery, it is best to consult with your plastic surgeon for personalized advice.
Breast Augmentation in Miami, FL
To initiate your Breast Augmentation journey in Miami, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with our team. If you’re interested in learning more about the procedure, call us now at (305) 406-9055 or conveniently schedule a consultation online. Our experienced professionals will guide you through the process and address any concerns you may have.
