After breast augmentation, you may hear your board-certified plastic surgeon or nurse refer to the “drop and fluff” period. You most likely are confused by this terminology and are unsure what it means. Here at The Vu Center Plastic & Hand Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons offer a variety of plastic and cosmetic surgeries in order to enhance your appearance. From breast augmentations and facelifts to liposuction and labiaplasty, we can help you look and feel your best. Learn more about what drop and fluff mean after breast augmentation below, and contact our Beaverton plastic surgery center to get started today!
What Does Drop and Fluff Mean?
Drop and fluff refers to the time when your implants will settle into place and your breasts will take on their final shape. After breast augmentation surgery, you should expect some soreness and that your breast implants won't be perfectly placed due to the swelling and more from the surgical procedure.
What To Expect After Breast Augmentation Surgery
During the first few weeks after breast augmentation surgery, your breast implants will be high up on your chest and your breasts may look and feel very firm. This is because the tissues around your implants are still healing and adjusting to your new implants. As your tissues heal and stretch, your breast implants will slowly settle into place. This process usually takes about 6-8 weeks, but can take up to 3 months. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days, although it is important to not overdo yourself. This will help ensure your breasts will drop and fluff correctly and in a timely manner.
What You May Feel After Breast Augmentation Surgery
You may notice that your breasts look and feel softer during the healing time and during the drop and fluff period. Some women may also experience some temporary breast asymmetry during the drop and fluff period. This is normal and will usually even out as your breast implants settle. Your new breasts will continue to settle into their final position over the course of several weeks. You may notice that your nipples and areolas may be slightly higher than they were before surgery. This is normal and they, too, will eventually settle into place. Once your breasts have settled into their final position, you will be able to enjoy your new look!
What to Know After Your Breast Augmentation Surgery
After your breast augmentation surgery, there are a few things you should know in order to ensure a smooth and successful recovery and proper breast implant placement.
First and foremost, it is important to follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions. This will help to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
You will likely experience some discomfort and swelling after your surgery. This is normal and will gradually improve over time. Your board-certified plastic surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort.
It is important to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks after your surgery. This will help to prevent any unnecessary strain on your incisions and promote proper healing.
You should expect to take approximately 1-2 weeks off from work or other regular activities. This will allow your body the time it needs to recover from breast augmentation surgery.
You will likely have regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to monitor your healing and progress. These appointments are important to attend as they will help ensure that everything is progressing as it should. This is also your chance to bring up any concerns you may be having, such as during the drop and fluff period, and get them addressed sooner rather than later.
Breast augmentation is a popular surgical procedure that can help women achieve their desired breast size and shape. While the results of breast augmentation can be beautiful and life-changing, it’s important to remember that this is a major surgery. As with any major cosmetic surgery, there are certain dos and don’ts that should be followed in order to ensure a successful outcome.
Do
- Take all of your prescribed medications as directed.
- This can include pain pills, blood thinners, and antibiotics.
- Wear your surgical bra or compression garment as directed.
- Sleep on your back or in a reclined position to avoid putting pressure on your breasts.
- Ice your breasts regularly to help reduce swelling.
Don’t
- Smoke cigarettes or use tobacco products. Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Drink alcohol. Alcohol is known for inhibiting the healing process. It also causes dehydration, puts strain on our immune system, and can increase the chances of post-operative bleeding.
CONTACT THE VU CENTER PLASTIC & HAND SURGERY IN BEAVERTON TODAY
The Vu Center Plastic & Hand Surgery is a top-rated plastic and cosmetic surgery center located in Beaverton, Oregon. Our team of skilled board-certified plastic surgeons takes the utmost care with our patients, ensuring both their surgery and their recovery phase goes well. We are always available to answer your questions and get you whatever you may need, such as pain medication or even new bandages.
If you have any concerns and/or questions about your breast augmentation recovery, be sure to talk to our board-certified plastic surgeon at The Vu Center Plastic & Hand Surgery and ask for help through this exciting time. Schedule a free consultation today!