Breast implants undergo a natural adjustment period after surgery, often referred to as “dropping” or “settling.” This process involves the implants and surrounding breast tissues gradually adapting to their new position within the body. It is a normal and anticipated phase of post-surgical recovery, contributing to a more natural and aesthetically pleasing final appearance.
The Settling Process Explained
Immediately following breast augmentation, implants frequently appear positioned higher on the chest. This initial high placement is a temporary effect caused by post-surgical swelling and the natural tightness of the surrounding tissues and muscles. Over weeks and months, the body’s healing mechanisms facilitate a gradual change. Gravity, combined with the stretching of the breast pocket and the softening of the pectoral muscles and surrounding tissues, allows the implants to descend. This descent moves the implants into a more natural, lower position on the chest wall, achieving the intended aesthetic result.
Perceived Size Versus Actual Size
A common question during the settling phase is whether breast implants physically reduce in size. The implants themselves do not shrink or lose volume during this process. Their material composition, whether saline or silicone, maintains its original dimensions. The perception of a size change arises because as the implants drop into a more natural position, their weight and volume become distributed differently within the breast pocket.
Initially, implants may appear rounder and fuller at the top, sometimes appearing “riding high” or “boxy” due to tissue tightness. As they settle, the implants move downwards and outwards, filling the lower portion of the breast more completely. This redistribution of volume creates a more natural, teardrop-like silhouette, with less upper pole fullness. The visual effect of this shift can make the breasts appear less prominent or “full” at the top, leading to the perception of a reduction in overall size.
This transformation from a higher placement to a more relaxed, natural contour is known as “fluffing.” Fluff describes how breast tissue drapes over the implant as it settles, creating a softer, natural curve. Therefore, any perceived change in size is an optical effect resulting from the implant’s repositioning and the reshaping of the breast mound.
Factors Influencing Settling and Look
Several factors can influence the timeline and extent of breast implant settling, as well as their final appearance. Implant type plays a role; larger, heavier implants may settle more quickly due to gravity’s influence. Implant placement also affects the process; submuscular (under the muscle) placement typically requires a longer settling period than subglandular (over the muscle) placement, as the muscle must relax.
Individual patient anatomy, including existing breast tissue volume and skin elasticity, also impacts how quickly and completely implants settle. Patients with tighter skin or well-developed pectoral muscles may experience a longer settling phase. Post-operative care, such as wearing a supportive bra as directed and avoiding strenuous activities, contributes positively to the healing and settling process. While settling is a normal part of recovery, significant asymmetry where one breast settles much faster than the other, or excessive dropping known as “bottoming out,” are situations that warrant consultation with a plastic surgeon.