A ferrule structure for an optical connector includes a central member disposed in the ferrule. The central member is configured so that an exterior dimension of the central member can change between a smaller size and a larger size. A plurality of optical fibers are disposed in the ferrule externally to the central member. A method for assembling an optical connector ferrule includes providing a central member, wherein the central member is configured so that an exterior dimension of the central member can change between a smaller size and a larger size. The method further includes placing an axial load on the central member to cause the exterior dimension to assume the smaller size. The central member is disposed in the ferrule. A plurality of optical fibers are disposed in the ferrule, external to the central member. The axial load is removed from the central member.