Weeks 1–3

In the initial few weeks after surgery, it’s common for the implants to sit high on the chest. The skin may feel stretched or tight, and the nipples may appear puffy, giving the breasts a cone-like or pointed shape. These effects are expected as the body adjusts to the implants and begins the early stages of healing. Some soreness and swelling are also common during this period.

Weeks 4–5

During this stage, the implants may begin to drop slightly as the tissues start to relax. You might notice one breast beginning to settle before the other, which can cause a temporary difference in appearance. This is normal and usually nothing to worry about. You may also start to see the breasts soften a little, particularly in the lower area.

Week 6 onwards

From around week six, the shape of your breasts typically begins to change more noticeably. The fullness in the upper part of the breast may reduce, while the lower breast may become rounder and more balanced in appearance. At this point, your body has usually adjusted enough for daily activities to feel more comfortable, although your surgeon may still advise against certain movements or pressures on the chest.

Between 3 and 6 months

By three to six months post-surgery, many people find that their implants have fully settled into their final position. The breast shape should look more natural, with a softer feel and more symmetrical appearance. However, the timeline can vary - some individuals may take longer to settle depending on healing speed, implant placement (such as under the muscle), and how the tissue responds during recovery. Your surgeon should monitor this progress during follow-up appointments to confirm that everything is settling as expected.

Wear compression garments as recommended

Wearing a surgical bra after breast augmentation helps to reduce swelling, support the healing tissues and improve the final contour of the breasts. Surgeons typically advise patients to wear these garments continuously for a period of four to six weeks, although this may vary depending on the surgical technique used and the individual’s recovery. Following your surgeon’s advice carefully during this period can contribute to a more comfortable healing process.

Use proper wound care

Proper care of the incision sites plays a role in preventing complications and supporting clean, controlled healing. Patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions, which often include keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding the application of any unapproved creams or ointments, and watching for changes in appearance. Avoiding direct water contact - such as from showers or baths - can help reduce the risk of infection in the early days of recovery.

Use pain relief as prescribed

Discomfort is to be expected after breast augmentation, but effective pain relief can help make the early stages of recovery more manageable. Surgeons may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter medication to control pain and reduce inflammation. Patients should follow dosage instructions precisely and contact their surgical team if the pain worsens or doesn’t improve over time.

Avoid strenuous activity

Activities involving heavy lifting, intense cardio or significant upper-body movement should be avoided for several weeks following surgery. Strenuous activity can place unnecessary pressure on the healing tissue, disrupt implant placement and increase the chance of complications. Gentle movement and walking can aid circulation, but anything high impact or high intensity should only be resumed when your surgeon confirms it is safe.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet

Nourishing your body with a balanced diet can support tissue repair and energy levels during recovery. Lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains can provide the nutrients needed for effective healing. It’s also helpful to avoid sudden weight loss, as it may impact the appearance of the breasts post-surgery and place strain on the body when it is already working to heal.

Avoid alcohol and smoking

Alcohol and tobacco can interfere with the body’s healing response. Smoking reduces oxygen levels in the blood and can impair wound healing, while alcohol may increase bleeding risks or interact negatively with prescribed medication. Avoiding both for at least several weeks before and after surgery is commonly advised to help support recovery and reduce complications.

Unexpected scarring

If scarring appears in a location, size or pattern that was not explained to you before surgery.

Redness, discharge or an unpleasant odour from the incision area

These may be signs of infection, especially if the discharge is yellow, green or smells unpleasant.

Breast asymmetry

Uneven breast size, shape, nipple height or areola position may indicate poor surgical planning or performance.

Symmastia

This happens when implants shift across the breastbone and meet in the centre of the chest, forming a ‘uniboob’ appearance. It may result from the implant pocket being placed incorrectly or made too large.

Midline shift

If one or both implants drift towards the centre of the chest, this could be due to inadequate support within the implant pocket or poor positioning during surgery.

Waterfall deformity

This occurs when natural breast tissue falls below the implant, creating a ‘Snoopy nose’ shape. It can be linked to improper implant placement or surgical technique.

Double bubble

This refers to when the implant sits below the natural breast crease and creates a second fold. It may indicate that the implant was placed incorrectly or that the natural anatomy was not fully considered.

Areola stretching

Stretching or distortion of the areola may suggest the wrong surgical method was used, such as failure to apply a suitable round block suture.

Persistent droopiness

If the breasts continue to sag or appear droopy after surgery, this might mean the procedure performed was not appropriate for your body type or level of existing ptosis.

If any of these symptoms arise, it may indicate a complication that needs further care. In some cases, they could also point to a failure by the surgeon to meet their duty of care before, during, or after surgery.