A woman holding a breast implant

What Does Drop And Fluff Mean?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases the size of the breasts. It is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the United States. However, a common concern after breast surgery is that the new implants may appear too high or slightly flat. Luckily, over time, the implants settle into place. This occurrence is where the term drop and fluff originates.

Let’s address some frequently asked questions about drop and fluff after breast augmentation:

What is Drop And Fluff?

Drop and fluff is a term used in plastic surgery to describe the settling of implants after a breast augmentation. “Drop” refers to the breast implants settling into a more natural position as the muscles relax and post-surgery swelling and inflammation subside. “Fluff” describes how the implants fill the lower breast area as this relaxation occurs and appears softer and fuller, similar to a newly-fluffed cushion. 

The Breast Augmentation Process

During a breast augmentation surgery, the implants are usually inserted through an incision made in the breast crease. The surgeon then places the implants into the breast pocket created by the incision and fills the space with saline or silicone gel.

Once the implants are in place, the surgeon will adjust the implant to create the desired shape by moving the implant around to create a more natural look. Adjustments can include making changes to the size or shape of the implant, as well as adding or removing breast tissue.

Immediately after the surgery, it’s important to keep in mind that since the drop and fluff process hasn’t happened yet, the implants may look different than you expect. If you have any questions about the process, ask your surgeon. 

How Long Do Implants Take to Drop And Fluff?

The rate at which breast implants drop and fluff varies from person to person, depending on how quickly the body heals after the breast augmentation surgery. In most cases, breast implants will drop and fluff three to six months post-op. 

Can I Speed Up The Drop And Fluff Timeline?

While there is little you can do to make your implants fluff or drop faster, following your plastic surgeon’s aftercare instructions will help your body optimize its natural healing process and minimize the risk of complications. Some recovery guidelines include avoiding strenuous physical activity, taking care of incisions, avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, and attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon. 

What If My Implants Don’t Drop And Fluff Right Away?

If it takes longer than expected for your breasts to fully settle, don’t worry. Several factors can prolong this process. For example, smaller, lighter implants may take longer to drop and fluff than larger implants. Similarly, textured breast implants may drop more gradually than smooth implants since the texture adds more friction against the adjacent tissue. 

Choose Hess & Sandeen For Your Breast Augmentation Surgery

Whether you are unhappy with your breast size, shape, or appearance or have experienced significant weight loss and want to add volume back into your breasts, there are many reasons to choose breast augmentation. No matter the reason, the experienced and compassionate cosmetic surgeons at Hess & Sandeen will ensure you have the most natural-looking final results. We can help create a more beautiful and confident you. 

To schedule a consultation for breast augmentation, call us today.