Healing After Surgery: What Is Breast Implant Drop and Fluff?

If you’ve recently undergone breast surgery in Singapore — or are planning to — you may have come across the phrase “drop and fluff.” It’s one of the most common parts of post-operative recovery, yet also one of the least understood.

What does it actually mean when implants “drop”? Why do some breasts settle at different rates? And how do you know if what you’re seeing is normal? 

Get all your answers below.

What Does “Drop” Mean?

After breast surgery in Singapore, your implants may initially sit higher on your chest than expected. This happens because the chest muscles and surrounding tissues are still tight from surgery. As swelling subsides and tissues start to relax, the implants gradually “drop” into a more natural position within the breast pocket. 

What Does “Fluff” Mean?

“Fluff” refers to the softening and rounding of the breasts after your implants have dropped. As your skin and tissue stretch and adapt to the implants, your breasts take on a fuller, more natural shape.

This process is gradual and varies between patients, depending on factors such as implant type, surgical technique, and your body’s healing response.

Typical Timeline for Drop and Fluff

Week 1-3: Initial Healing and Implant Adjustment

These early stages are when your body adjusts after your breast surgery. Beneath the surface, the chest muscles and connective tissues are resisting the new implants, which is normal. It means the breast pockets are still getting used to their new shape and volume, and internal healing has only just begun. 

During this time, a thin layer of scar tissue will begin to form around each implant — your body’s way of supporting and eventually stabilising them in place.

What to Expect:

• Breasts may appear firm, tight, or overly full in the upper pole (the area above the nipple and areola).
• Implants may look “cone-like” or overly round.
• You may feel pressure or heaviness, especially with submuscular implants.
• Skin may feel shiny or stretched.
• Swelling is at its peak, especially around the incision area and upper chest.

Weeks 3-6: Early Drop and Tissue Adaptation

At this stage, post-breast surgery, you may begin to notice visible movement as the implants gradually settle into a more natural position. This shift occurs as the surrounding skin and tissue start to respond to the internal pressure and adapt to the implants.

What to Expect:

• Implants begin to descend gradually into the lower pole (the area below the nipple, extending down to the crease beneath the breast).
• In some cases, one breast may drop before the other.
• The upper pole becomes less swollen and more sloped.
• Breasts begin to feel less firm and more pliable.
• Early asymmetry may become more noticeable (this is normal).
• If your surgeon recommended massage or displacement exercises, this is when they’re usually introduced.

Months 2-3: Fluffing Begins and Shape Becomes More Visible

At this stage, the implants have typically dropped significantly, and the “fluff” phase begins.

What to Expect:

• Breasts appear softer, fuller, and rounder, especially in the lower half.
• Cleavage lines and nipple positions begin to look more natural.
• Skin stretches and relaxes, especially in patients with tighter pre-op tissue.

Months 3-6: Final Position and Softness Take Shape

This is when your breasts begin to look and feel like they belong to your body. At this stage, post-breast surgery, your scars are still maturing, so you may be advised to continue topical treatments.

What to Expect:

• Implants reach their long-term position in the pocket.
• The overall look is more natural in motion and at rest.
• Full softness is usually achieved, especially in the lower pole.
• Any residual asymmetry typically balances out.

When to Contact Your Surgeon

The changes you notice after breast surgery in Singapore are typically harmless. However, some signs may indicate a need for medical attention, such as:

• Significant or persistent asymmetry that doesn’t improve.
• A breast that remains unusually high, firm, or painful well beyond the expected timeline.
• New swelling, redness, or warmth in the breast or incision area.
• Sharp or worsening pain after initial improvement.
• Unusual discharge, fever, or other signs of infection.
• Breasts that feel excessively hard or appear distorted are possible signs of capsular contracture.

Key Takeaway: Be Patient During Healing

Healing from breast surgery in Singapore is a process filled with subtle changes and uneven progress. Understandably, you may be anxious to see results. However, your body needs time to heal and adjust to the implants. Eventually, your breasts should align with the aesthetic goals you had in mind and discussed with your doctor.

Have Questions About Healing After Breast Surgery?

If you’re unsure whether something is normal, wondering when you’re allowed to safely resume daily activities, or simply want reassurance, contact us here. Our team at Polaris Plastic Surgery is always ready to answer your questions. You don’t have to wait for your next appointment to reach out.

FAQs on Breast Surgery in Singapore

How much does breast surgery cost in Singapore?

Breast augmentation surgery costs in Singapore vary depending on the procedure type, surgeon’s experience, implant selection, and facility fees. 

How long does breast surgery last?

Breast surgery results typically last 10 to 20 years.

What is the best age to get breast implants?

In Singapore, the best age to get breast implants is 21 and above, as this aligns with national medical guidelines for elective cosmetic surgery. While saline implants are permitted from age 18 and silicone implants from age 22, most clinics recommend waiting until at least 21 to ensure full physical development, emotional maturity, and informed decision-making.

Patients under 21 are considered minors and must meet strict requirements: written parental or guardian consent, a mandatory cooling-off period, and an independent professional assessment to confirm that surgery is in their best interest. These safeguards are mandated by the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) and supported by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).