How should implants feel after breast reconstruction?

Question

I had a unilateral mastectomy with a keyhole incision when I was younger, so I only developed one breast. I am 7 months post op from bilateral under the muscle breast augmentation. I anticipated them to feel different, but I'm not sure if what I'm experiencing is expected or if I have complications. The reconstructed side is much firmer, sits higher than the other and it doesn't move around as easily. I don't feel pain, but occasional tightness.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your inquire,

After breast reconstruction with implants, it's normal to experience a range of sensations as your body heals and adjusts.  Initially, the implants may feel firmer than expected. This is due to swelling and the healing process. The implants may feel foreign at first, but over time, your body will adjust, and they should start to feel more natural.

While implants may not feel exactly like natural breast tissue, they should feel relatively soft and integrate well with your body over time. The extent of this depends on factors such as the type of implant, your body type, and the surgical technique used.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Warmhearted760468,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The reconstructive breast with implants will not feel like a natural breast, will be firmer, will not have much sensation, and will not move like a normal breast. The normal breast is no longer present.  Breasts reconstruction with flaps, especially abdominal flaps, will feel and act much more like normal breasts since fatty tissue is used for the reconstruction.

How should implants feel after breast reconstruction?

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How should implants feel after breast reconstruction?

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