After getting surgery. One side feels like a normal boob. Whereas the other side feels like I have an implant. Why?

Question

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Without a preoperative 
and postoperative exam and seeing your operative note, this would be
impossible to tell. Early on in the several weeks following surgery there is
often a difference that resolves itself. Whether this applies to you is
unclear. I recommend you discuss this with your plastic surgeon.The final appearance, shape, and movement are not exactly the same as normal breasts. The surgically enlarged breasts do not move in the same way as normal breasts. They tend to be firmer. The contours are usually somewhat different than normal breasts. In some patients these discrepancies may be rather noticeable. Although every effort is made to place the implants symmetrically, complete symmetry is rarely achieved. Immediately after surgery, the breasts are swollen and firmer. The final shape and size is approximated after 2 to 3 months, but up to one year may be required for the end result.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to specific/meaningful evaluation, advise, and/or reassurance. Having said that, it is not unusual for breasts to demonstrate some degree of visual/"feel” asymmetry after breast augmentation surgery. Many of my patients, on average about 3 months after surgery, report that there breast implants feel “part of me”. Again, best to follow up with your plastic surgeon for specifics.  Best wishes.

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

This is a difficult question answer without pictures or a physical examination. I go back to your plastic surgeon and pose this question to him or her

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

Early after surgery, one side can be more swollen than the other, making it feel firmer. I tell our patients the one thing we can guarantee is that two-sided procedures always heal differently.I also feel a difference when one breast is smaller than the other, and a larger implant is placed into the smaller breast, resulting in a tighter fit. Another reason one side may feel firmer is if the firmer breast is developing a capsular contracture, in which the scar around the implant (called a capsule) shrinks and squeezes on the implant, making it feel firmer.See your plastic surgeon to find out what he/she thinks might be causing the difference.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

It is difficult to attempt answer your question without a photograph.  It is very common for implants to feel different on either side in the early stages of recovery.  One breast may be adjusting to the implant more quickly than the other and if one side is particularly tight the implant may feel more palpable.Usually these asymmetries resolve over the course of 6-8 weeks.  However I suggest that you see your plastic surgeon for an examination and discussion of what may be causing this asymmetry.

After getting surgery. One side feels like a normal boob. Whereas the other side feels like I have an implant. Why?

Answers (5)

Answer: Breast Augmentation and Implant Difference

Answer: Breast Augmentation and Implant Difference

Answer: Palpable breast implant after surgery.

Answer: Palpable breast implant after surgery.

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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

After getting surgery. One side feels like a normal boob. Whereas the other side feels like I have an implant. Why?

Answers (5)

Answer: Breast Augmentation and Implant Difference

Answer: Breast Augmentation and Implant Difference

Answer: Palpable breast implant after surgery.

Answer: Palpable breast implant after surgery.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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