Swelling is a normal part of healing. Breasts often look high, tight and larger than the final result at first, then settle gradually.
Typical course
- Most swelling subsides over the first 4–6 weeks.
- Residual swelling can take 3–6 months to fully resolve.
- Mild day-to-day fluctuation (worse at the end of the day or around your period) is common early on.
Helping it settle
Wear your support bra, keep gently mobile, and avoid strenuous activity that aggravates swelling.
When to seek review
Sudden, marked swelling of one breast, especially with pain or bruising, can indicate a haematoma or seroma and should be checked promptly. Late one-sided swelling months or years later should also be reviewed (see BIA-ALCL).