How to Massage Breasts After Augmentation?
By Stephen E. Metzinger, MD, MSPH, FACS, triple board-certified plastic surgeon, Aesthetic Surgical Associates, Metairie, LA. Updated October 2026.
Quick answer: Implant massage, also called implant displacement exercises, gently moves the implant within its pocket to keep the pocket soft and help the implant settle. Start only when your surgeon tells you to, typically 1–2 weeks after surgery, and do it 2–3 times a day for 3–6 months. Not every implant needs massage: textured implants and some placements should not be massaged, so follow your own surgeon’s instructions.
Key takeaways
- Never start massage before your surgeon clears you.
- Typical routine: 2–3 times daily, a few minutes each session, for 3–6 months.
- Massage should feel like pressure, not sharp pain.
- Stop and call the office if a breast becomes hard, painful, swollen or changes shape.
Before & after: breast augmentation at Aesthetic Surgical Associates
See healed results in Dr. Metzinger’s own patients in our breast augmentation before and after gallery.
Dr. Metzinger’s own patients. Individual results vary.
Why massage breast implants?
Massage aims to keep the implant pocket open and soft while scar tissue forms around the implant. Every implant gets a thin capsule of scar tissue; in some patients the capsule tightens and squeezes the implant (capsular contracture), making the breast firm, high or misshapen. Displacement exercises are one of the measures surgeons use to try to lower that risk and help implants placed under the muscle drop and soften (“drop and fluff”).
When should I start massaging after breast augmentation?
Typically 1–2 weeks after surgery, but only after your surgeon clears you at a follow-up visit. Starting too early can irritate healing tissue or move the implant out of position.
How to massage breast implants: step by step
- Wash your hands and remove your bra. Lie on your back or sit upright.
- Push down: place your hands above the breast and press the implant downward. Hold 5–10 seconds, release.
- Push in: place your hands on the outer side of the breast and press the implant toward the center of your chest. Hold, release.
- Push up: cup the bottom of the breast and press the implant upward. Hold, release.
- Repeat each movement 3–5 times on each side, unless instructed differently.
Pressure should be firm but comfortable. Mild discomfort is normal early on; sharp pain is not.
How often and how long should I massage?
| Time after surgery | Typical routine (confirm with your surgeon) |
|---|---|
| Weeks 0–1 | No massage; rest, surgical bra |
| Weeks 1–2 | Start when cleared; 2–3 sessions a day, a few minutes each |
| Months 1–3 | Continue 2–3 times daily as the implants drop and soften |
| Months 3–6 | Continue or taper as instructed at follow-ups |
When should you NOT massage?
- Before your surgeon clears you.
- With textured or form-stable (“gummy bear”) implants, unless told otherwise, since these are designed to stay in place.
- If an incision is open, draining or infected.
- If a breast is suddenly swollen, hard, hot or very painful. Call the office instead.
Frequently asked questions
Does implant massage prevent capsular contracture?
It is one of several measures surgeons use to try to lower the risk, along with careful surgical technique and implant handling. It does not guarantee contracture will not happen.
Can I massage too hard?
Yes. Massage should never cause sharp pain. Over-forceful pressure can irritate healing tissue.
Do I need to massage silicone and saline implants the same way?
Smooth saline and smooth silicone implants are usually massaged the same way. Textured implants are usually not massaged. Follow your own instructions.
What if my implants still look high after a few weeks?
Implants under the muscle often sit high for the first weeks and drop over about 3 months. Bring it up at your follow-up.
Book a consultation in Metairie
Considering breast augmentation in Metairie or New Orleans? Read about breast augmentation at Aesthetic Surgical Associates or book a consultation.
Sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Breast augmentation recovery
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Breast augmentation
About the Author
Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger
A Metairie, LA native, Dr. Metzinger is renowned for his exceptional expertise, precision, and dedication to the art and science of plastic surgery. His commitment to delivering transformative results while maintaining the highest standards of patient care has solidified his reputation as a trusted surgeon in the community and beyond.
