Breast augmentation surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that has helped countless individuals achieve their desired breast size and shape. Whether for aesthetic reasons or post-mastectomy breast reconstruction, breast implants have become a widely accepted solution. However, there are numerous questions and misconceptions surrounding breast implants, one of the most common being whether breast implants get smaller as they “drop” or settle over time. In this article, we will explore the dynamics of breast implant settling, the factors that affect it, and whether or not your breast implants will actually get smaller as they drop.
Understanding Breast Implant Dropping
Before diving into the specifics of whether breast implants get smaller when they drop, it is essential to understand what happens during the settling process. Breast implants typically take some time to settle into their final position and appearance, often referred to as the “drop and fluff” phase. This settling process can take several weeks to several months, and it involves a few key components:
Gravity’s Role: Gravity plays a significant role in the way breast implants settle. When you first get breast implants, they may appear high and tight on the chest, leading to a fuller and more elevated look. Over time, gravity pulls the implants downward, causing them to settle into a more natural position on the chest wall. This process is what people often refer to as “dropping.”
Relaxation of Tissues: The surrounding breast tissues, including the muscles, ligaments, and skin, need time to adapt to the presence of the implants. As these tissues relax and accommodate the implants, the breasts often appear more natural and less “stiff” in appearance.
Swelling Reduction: After breast augmentation surgery, it is common for the breasts to be swollen. As the swelling subsides, the breast implants may appear smaller than they initially did immediately after the procedure.
Fluffing: The term “fluffing” refers to the implants taking on a more natural shape and position. This often involves the lower portion of the breast rounding out, creating a softer and more natural look.
Factors Affecting How Breast Implants Settle
Now that we have a better understanding of what happens when breast implants settle, it’s crucial to explore the factors that can influence this process. Various factors can affect how your breast implants drop and whether they will appear smaller or larger in the end:
Implant Size and Type: The size and type of implant you choose can significantly impact how your implants will settle. Larger implants may require more time to drop and achieve their final position. Additionally, the type of implant, such as saline or silicone, can influence the settling process.
Surgical Technique: The surgical technique used during breast augmentation can affect how your implants settle. For example, the placement of the implant (above or below the muscle) and the incision location can influence the outcome.
Implant Profile: Implant profile refers to how far the implant projects from the chest. High-profile implants tend to create a more pronounced, “perky” look initially, which can affect the appearance during the dropping and fluffing phase.
Elasticity of Tissues: The elasticity of your breast tissues plays a significant role in how your implants will settle. Patients with naturally tight or less elastic breast tissues may experience a longer settling period.
Age and Lifestyle: A patient’s age and lifestyle can also influence the settling process. Younger patients may have more elastic skin and tissues, which can impact how the implants drop and settle. Additionally, physical activities and lifestyle choices can influence how the breasts adapt to the implants.
Do Breast Implants Get Smaller When They Drop?
Now, let’s address the question at the heart of this article: do breast implants get smaller when they drop? The short answer is no; breast implants do not actually get smaller as they drop and settle. The size of the implant you select remains constant throughout the process. However, several factors can create the illusion of a decrease in size as the implants settle:
Projection vs. Diameter: Breast implants have two key measurements – projection and diameter. Projection refers to how far the implant sticks out from the chest, while diameter refers to the width of the implant. During the dropping process, the projection of the implant may decrease slightly, which can give the appearance of the breasts being smaller. However, the implant’s diameter typically remains the same.
Swelling Reduction: As mentioned earlier, swelling is common after breast augmentation surgery. As the swelling subsides, the breasts may appear slightly smaller than they did immediately after the procedure. This reduction in swelling is temporary and does not indicate a change in the actual implant size.
Perception: How you perceive the size of your breasts can change as the implants settle. Initially, the breasts may appear more “perky” and elevated. As they drop and fluff, they take on a more natural shape, which some individuals may interpret as a reduction in size, even though the actual implant size has not changed.
It’s essential to remember that breast implant size is determined by the volume of the implant you select during your consultation with your surgeon. Once the implants are in place, their size does not change, but how they settle and the surrounding factors can create the illusion of a size difference.
Managing Expectations
Managing your expectations is crucial when undergoing breast augmentation surgery. The final appearance of your breasts may not be evident immediately after the procedure. It’s essential to be patient and allow the settling process to take its course.
Additionally, open communication with your plastic surgeon is vital. They can provide you with a realistic timeline for when you can expect your breast implants to settle and what the final outcome will likely be. If you have concerns about the appearance of your breasts during the dropping and fluffing phase, discussing them with your surgeon is the best course of action.
Conclusion
Breast implants do not get smaller as they drop, but rather, they settle into a more natural position on the chest. The size of the implant you choose remains constant throughout the process. The appearance of a reduction in size during the settling phase is influenced by factors such as gravity, tissue adaptation, and the reduction of post-surgical swelling.
When considering breast augmentation, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the settling process and manage your expectations accordingly. By working closely with a qualified plastic surgeon and maintaining open communication, you can achieve the desired results and enjoy the benefits of breast augmentation. Remember that the final outcome will be a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance that complements your body and enhances your self-confidence.
