Will Silicone Implants for Breast Reconstruction Soften over Time?

Question

Mastectomy/Silicone Implant Reconstruction. 11 days ago I had my final reconstruction surgery with silicone implants. I am happy with how they look but the feel very firm, stiff and almost hard. They just stay in place. Is that normal? Will they soften?

Justin Gusching, DO · Answer

They should soften over time but it also depends on what is causing it. It could just be overlying inflammation and swelling causing it to feel taught. Usually if the implant is subpectoral then it will take time for the muscle to stretch more and soften around the implant. In my experience, this is the most common cause. Also, there could be capsular contracture which will not improve on its own but requires intervention. Usually Singular or Accolade is enough, but some people will add in milk thistle.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Give your reconstruction some time to settle.  In general there should be some softness to the reconstruction and some movement to the implant especially if the pocket was made a bit larger than the implant.  As time goes by the area will soften and the implant may have more movement.  

	Dr. ES

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

In general I like to place a smaller implant in relation the pocket that has been created by the tissue expander so that the implant feels soft and moves around.

	It is difficult to say what your issue is without and exam, but it could be that there is some inflammation that makes them feel hard at this point.

	Hope that helps.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

This is a difficult answer, because your breasts act differently after mastectomy/ reconstruction compared to regular breast tissue.  There usually is not alot of change after the silicone implants are placed post mastectomy and expansion.  The goal is usually to place a smaller implant compared to the expander so that there is some room for the implant to move and be softer.  At this point, your surgeon should instruct you to massage the breasts and see if things will soften over time.  Everyone is different, so you will really not know for about three months.  Just be patient and give it a few months.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This is difficult to predict at this point in time. The general answer is that they SHOULD soften with time. However, they could also harden. Time will tell.

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Will Silicone Implants for Breast Reconstruction Soften over Time?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breasts Softening After Breast Reconstruction

Answer: Breasts Softening After Breast Reconstruction

Answer: Will reconstructed breasts become firm/hard or soften with silicone implants?

Answer: Will reconstructed breasts become firm/hard or soften with silicone implants?

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