Could Breast Augmentation Cause You To Gain Weight?

If you’re like most cosmetic surgery patients, maintaining a stable and healthy weight is important. Seeing your weight begin to climb after a procedure can understandably be frustrating. For some patients, however, this is a normal and expected postsurgical phenomenon. Renowned board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi and the caring team at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA fully understand why postoperative weight gain can be discouraging and are committed to helping patients minimize weight gain and return to their ideal shape as soon as possible after surgery. Learn more about gaining weight after breast augmentation here, including what may be causing it and how you can shed the excess pounds quickly and safely.

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is an exceptionally popular form of breast enhancement surgery used to increase the volume and size of the breast. In most cases, this is accomplished with the use of synthetic breast implants (silicone gel or saline) or fat transfer to the breast.

What breast augmentation side effects are possible?

Breast augmentation has a relatively low rate of risk, though some side effects or complications may be possible, including:

• Poor cosmetic result
• Asymmetry
• Implant malfunction
• Implant displacement
• Ruptured implant
• Leaking implant
• Capsular contracture
• Prolonged pain, numbness, or sensitivity
• Allergic or adverse reaction
• Breast implant illness
• BIA-ALCL

While the vast majority of women tolerate breast augmentation relatively well, the risk of complication increases for patients who:

• Are in poor health
• Smoke
• Select an inappropriate implant size or type
• Choose an inexperienced surgeon
• Do not follow postoperative guidelines and recommendations

Is it normal to gain weight after breast augmentation?

Weight gain after getting breast implants is another possible side effect, though it is typically subtle, temporary, and primarily associated with postsurgical swelling. In some cases, postsurgical swelling may account for up to 5 – 10 pounds of excess weight after breast augmentation, though patients should notice their weight returning to normal as the swelling subsides, which may take up to 2 – 3 weeks. In addition to postoperative swelling, possible causes of breast augmentation weight gain include:

• Swelling/fluid retention
• Decreased physical activity during recovery
• Constipation caused by pain medication
• Added weight of breast implants themselves

How long does weight gain after breast augmentation last?

For most women, the minimal weight gain associated with swelling after breast augmentation naturally disappears, along with the swelling, after about 2 – 3 weeks. However, because strenuous physical activity and exercise are usually restricted for about 4 – 6 weeks after breast augmentation, some patients may notice their weight coming to a standstill or even continuing to climb. While this can certainly be frustrating, try to be patient and maintain a healthy, balanced diet during this time period. Once you have been cleared to resume your fitness routine, you may find that the excess weight comes off as quickly as it appeared. If you are experiencing significant or prolonged weight gain after breast augmentation, don’t hesitate to call your surgeon for re-evaluation.

Minimize postoperative weight gain after breast augmentation in Newport Beach, CA

Most women don’t like the idea of gaining weight, but it is important to remember that extra weight after cosmetic surgery is likely to be superficial, subtle, and temporary. To minimize postsurgical swelling and weight gain after breast augmentation, be sure to follow Dr. Kelishadi’s recovery guidelines closely, including wearing compression garments and maintaining a healthy diet.

If you are interested in learning more about the exciting transformations that are possible with breast augmentation, call the knowledgeable team at SSK Plastic Surgery to schedule your private in-office or virtual consultation with award-winning board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi today. We look forward to helping you get the feminine, sexy, striking physique you’ve always wanted with advanced breast augmentation in Newport Beach!