As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Richmond, one of the most common questions I hear from breast augmentation patients is about the “drop and fluff” process.

Let me explain this natural progression and help you understand what to expect during your recovery.

What Does “Drop and Fluff” Mean?

The term “drop and fluff” describes how breast implants naturally settle into their final position. Initially, after surgery, your implants sit high on your chest wall, and your chest muscles hold them tightly.

Over time, they gradually settle into a more natural position and take on a softer, more natural shape. As you saw in the video above, this process is entirely normal and expected.

Your pectoral muscles need time to relax and release their tight hold on the implants. Think of it like breaking in a new pair of shoes. It takes time for everything to settle perfectly into place.

What You Might Notice

During the settling process, you may experience:

  • Asymmetric settling (one side may drop before the other)
  • Changes in breast shape and fullness
  • Gradual softening of the breast tissue
  • Increasing natural movement

The Week-by-Week Timeline of Breast Implant Settling

You’ll see your initial results right after surgery. At this point, the breasts typically look their roundest before any swelling sets in.

This is what I see in the operating room, but it’s important to understand this appearance will change by the next morning as swelling sets in.

Week 1

Your breasts will appear:

  • Higher than their final position
  • Swollen, especially in the upper portion
  • Somewhat boxy or rectangular in shape 
  • This is completely normal and exactly what we expect to see.

Weeks 2 to 4

During this period, you’ll notice:

  • Gradual softening of the breast tissue
  • The initial dropping of the implants
  • Decreased swelling in the upper poles
  • More natural movement beginning

Weeks 4 to 8

This is when the most noticeable changes occur:

  • Implants continue their downward migration
  • Breast shape becomes more natural
  • Upper pole fullness settles
  • Overall softening continues

Months 3 to 6

The final phase includes:

  • Complete settling of implants
  • Natural breast shape achieved
  • Soft, mobile implants
  • Final results becoming visible

Tips for Optimal Settling

At our Richmond practice, we guide patients through this process with several recommendations:

  • Follow post-op instructions: Careful adherence to post-operative care instructions helps ensure proper settling.
  • Stay patient: Remember that every patient’s timeline is different. Your friend’s implants may settle faster or slower than yours.
  • Keep your follow-ups: Regular check-ins at our Richmond office allow us to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

When to Contact Us

While the settling process is natural, contact our office if you experience:

  • Significant asymmetry that persists
  • Unusual pain or discomfort
  • Concerns about implant position
  • Questions about your progress

At Reddy Plastic Surgery, we understand that the settling period can feel uncertain. We’re here to support you with:

  • Regular follow-up appointments
  • Clear communication about your progress
  • Answers to your questions and concerns
  • Guidance throughout your recovery

Your Next Step

Schedule a consultation at our Richmond office to learn more about the procedure and recovery process. We’ll discuss your goals and create a customized plan for achieving your desired results.

Remember, the “drop and fluff” process is a journey, not a destination. Trust the process, and know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.