BREAST IMPLANT MASSAGE EXERCISES

BREAST IMPLANT MASSAGE EXERCISES

Implant massage exercises are started soon after surgery. The goal is to manipulate the implant around the pocket to keep the pocket larger than the implant itself. This allows the implant to move around more naturally with changes in body position, and also minimizes the development of capsular contracture (a complication in which the capsule that forms around the implant begins to contract, squeezing and distorting the implant). Exercises are performed twice a day on each side.

HOW TO PERFORM IMPLANT MASSAGE EXERCISES

You will be instructed to use the right hand to massage the left breast and vice versa. These exercises are performed in two directions:

• First, the hand is held so that the little finger is touching the inframammary fold. Turn the palm toward the body to push the implant in an upward direction, hold it in that position for a few seconds, and then release. This should be a rocking motion, not a lift. The exercise repeated with the other breast.
• In the second exercise, you push the implants toward the center of the chest, hold for a few seconds, and then release

BREAST IMPLANT MASSAGE TECHNIQUE DEMONSTRATION

Learn how to do implant massage after breast augmentation.

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE

Avoiding capsular contracture is a primary concern after breast augmentation. The capsule is the scar tissue which normally forms around the implants. If this scar tissue tightens too much around the implants, it may cause distortion and discomfort.

This condition may be treated initially with more aggressive massage exercises. Singulair, a medication typically used for asthma, may also be prescribed, as it may lessen capsular contracture in some patients. When these measures are unsuccessful, surgery is needed to remove the scar tissue and reopen the pocket. Implant massage exercises are restarted a few days later to maintain the larger pocket and help prevent recurrence.