With breast implant surgery, it’s not unusual for one breast initially to be higher
Q. I had breast augmentation several weeks ago, and one breast seems to be higher than the other. Is that something I should be concerned about or should I just let it go?
A. Breast asymmetry following implant surgery, where one implant appears higher than the other, is a concern that patients often have during the postoperative period.
It is essential to understand that some degree of asymmetry immediately after surgery can be normal due to factors like individual healing rates, the pre-existing symmetry of the breasts, and the surgical technique used. In the initial weeks to months following surgery, the breasts undergo a process known as “settling” or “dropping,” where the implants gradually move into a more natural position as the tissues relax and swelling subsides.
This process can occur at different rates for each breast, leading to temporary asymmetry.
Your doctor would likely advise patience during this period, as it can take several months for the implants to fully settle. However, if the asymmetry persists beyond the typical settling period, or if there are signs of complications such as pain or significant discomfort, consult your surgeon.
In some cases, your symmetry may be related to a capsule contraction, not related to the doctor’s technique, or it could be that the pocket that your doctor made was not appropriate for the size of your implant. In some cases, further intervention may be required to correct the breast’s position.
Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner in Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified. Email questions to him at Cwolf@miamiplasticsurgery.com
