Do you have any guidance on how best to massage implants without damaging operation. I’m 6 months post surgery and one side is a lot firmer than the other. I’ve never been told how to massage and how often. So I am not sure if what I am doing is correct.
Also should I still sleep in a bra?
Thank you
Hi lovemydog
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Did you have radiotherapy? My implant became much firmer after radiotherapy. I was never told to massage it, I do sometimes when its uncomfortable as it does ease it a bit.
I was simply told that “its to be expected after radiotherapy”.
I hope you get better information.
Lynne xx
Hi lovemydog
Thank you for posting.
It is common to experience some firmness following breast reconstruction using an implant. You mention one side is more firm than the other. The firmness often settles over time, but sometimes it can be ongoing. Massaging is often recommended after breast surgery to help the skin and scars to soften.
Massage can improve the blood supply to improve healing, help the tissue to remain soft and natural and reduce the growth of scar tissue around the implants. As @LynneHM says radiotherapy can cause the reconstructed breasts to become firm.
There is no particular way of doing the massage. It is about using gentle pressure moving the breast tissue and often you will be doing this at least daily. Many women find it comfortable to sleep with a bra but generally you can sleep without a bra if this is more comfortable after 6 months. Do talk to your breast care nurse or treatment team if you have any concerns.
It can be difficult to adjust to how the reconstructed breasts look and feel and it’s important to remember that it can take 6 months or more for the breasts to heal fully. Sometimes, talking to someone who has had a similar experience can be helpful. Our Someone Like Me service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had an implant breast reconstruction who can share their personal experiences to answer your questions, offer support or simply listen to how you are feeling.
We also offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK - prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Grete
Breast Care Nurse
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