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Breast “Massage” Exercises After Breast Augmentation
A practice that Dr. Turkeltaub generally recommends for most of his breast augmentation patients is to perform a daily “breast massage.” Though it may sound more exciting than it really is, this involves the gentle manipulation of the breast implants in their pockets. This practice is designed to assist with healthy recovery and promote the best aesthetic results. It is not performed, however, if you have anatomic (shaped) breast implants such as the Natrelle® 410 shaped gel breast implants.
Why Should I Massage My Breasts After Breast Augmentation?
“Massaging” the breasts after breast augmentation has two main purposes: to ensure the best results and to avoid capsular contracture.
Better Results
The breast implant manipulation in the postoperative period as well as somewhat long term helps to keep the breast pockets soft, supple, and open and allow the implants to remain in their desired surgically placed position. This activity also aids in maintaining the appropriate size of the soft tissue capsules around the implants which translates into more normal movement and a reduced risk of firmness.
May Help Reduce the Risk of Capsular Contracture
By helping the breast pockets remain open, the soft tissue capsules that form around each implant will be the same size or a little larger than the implants themselves. This can reduce the risk that the soft tissue capsule will shrink over time, resulting in abnormal firmness or even capsular contracture. (Capsular contracture is the condition where the breasts become firmer and often distorted in appearance as a result of the formation of thick and constricting scar tissue around the implants. The etiology of this condition is actually thought to be the result of bacterial “seeding” around the implant.)
What Is the Proper Way and Length of Time to Massage the Breasts After Breast Augmentation?
Due to multiple variables including your individual characteristics, the nature and frequency of the breast exercises are tailored for each patient by Dr. Turkeltaub. He will provide you with explicit instructions designed specifically for you. Initially started several days after your breast augmentation surgery, these exercises may be performed three to four times per day and then later reduced to once a day and then, finally, discontinued.
Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance and improve your self-image and confidence. Dr. Steven Turkeltaub, board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, can offer you breast augmentation personalized to your needs and goals. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Turkeltaub, call the Arizona Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at (480) 451-3000 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to speaking with you.