How soft should breast implants be?

Question

Curious if someone could describe how soft breasts should be after implants, and how you advise your patients to monitor for capsular contracture. My breasts feel soft while standing/sitting but hard as soon as I use my muscle or lay flat (my implants are Sientra, under the muscle). Is it wise to get a check up w/ surgeon every once in a while? Or depend solely on occasional MRIs? Do you prescribe any massage or other LONG TERM technique AFTER complete healing as a preventative measure?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Gel implants feel most closely like natural breast tissue.  Saline implants feel more like a bag of water.  You can return to your surgeon annually for an evaluation of your breast implants.  If you get regular mammograms they will often check the integrity of your implants as well.  Capsular contracture will feel like one breast is firmer than the other, slowly worsening over time.  If you suspect you have a capsular contracture visit with your surgeon for an examination.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Jubilant2138,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Albert Ko, MD · Answer

Hi there! Breast implants should be squishy and soft to the touch! If you are experiencing hardness it may be a capsular contracture, I would recommend following up with your plastic surgeon!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Gel implants are softer than saline and the gummy implants are the most firm. If you have a fair amount of breast tissue, you breasts will feel soft. If you have minimal tissue, your breast will feel firmer, especially laying down, because you are mainly feeling the implant. For smooth round implants, massage once daily is recommended. Textured implants are not massaged. Please ask your surgeon what is best for you based on your implants. I would suggest ultrasounds to check the implants, and not start with the expensive MRI.

How soft should breast implants be?

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How soft should breast implants be?

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.