One of my Breasts is Harder Than the Other - Why?

I am 32 yrs old and I had breast implants (Natrelle Saline filled, 450 cc in each) placed about 2 yrs ago and haven't had any problems, but about 3 days ago I noticed my right breast is harder than the left all of a sudden. It doesn't look any different, just feels harder than it had before. I am just concerned that something is going wrong with it. I am right handed, would that have anything to do with it, since i use the muscles in that side more? Should I see a Dr?

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10 Doctor Answers | Asked by ChelleG in cincinnati ohio

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Hardness of breast implants (capsular contracture)

Hardness of breast implants after breast augmentation is usually due to excess scar tissue which has developed around the implants-known as capsular contracture. The scar tissue forms a shell or capsule that can squeeze or contract the implant, occasionally causing pain and discomfort. This complication occurs in about 10% of all patients who get breast augmentation. This condition usually develops within the first year after surgery but can occur at any time. If it is... more

One implant suddenly harder: see your doctor

Sudden changes in the breast could herald a capsular contracture, hematoma or even seroma. Recent concerns about the latter raised by the FDA suggest a possible evaluation for ALCL. See your doctor.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

32 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Hardness of breast implant

If one breast feels paritcularly harder than the other, you may be developing a caspular contracture and you should be evaluated by your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Capsalur Contracture

Your description sounds like you are suffering from a capsular contracture of the right breast. The literature reports this happening in approximately 10-20% of breast augmentation patients. The degree of contracture is categorized by Baker grades I-IV , with IV being the most severe. Although the symptoms you describe seem mild, I would recommend visiting your plastic surgeon. Best wishes, Neil Zemmel, MD

Capsular Contracture

Sounds like you have a capsular contracture. If your breast is hard and not painful then no treatment is recommended other than observation. It is best to visit your plastic surgeon to get a good examination. Dr. ES

Hardness of breast after implants

It is possible to develop hardness in one breast several months or years after breast augmentation, and this may be due to the onset of capsular contracture. You are best advised to seek consultation with your plastic surgeon and consider treatment options.

Hardening of a breast implant implies a capsular contracture

ChelleG, Capsular contracture is the contraction/tightening of the scar capsule around the implant. All implants have a capsule around them (it's the body's natural way of dealing with implants). However, sometimes (and we don't really know why and when) the scar tissues contracts and compresses the implant. It's called capsular contracture. Initially in can be felt, then seen, and finally it can become painful. You should see your plastic... more

Capsular contracture is possible years after surgery

You probably are just noticing some gradual firmness that started months ago- the process is called 'capsular contracture' - the capsule around your implant is beginning to thicken and contract. This can ultimately distort the implant position and size. There are a couple of non-surgical options (Accolade) which might be tried with varying success. The surgical options to manage capsular contracture include capsulectomy and replacement with textured implants, preferably below the... more

Unilateral Breast Hardness

The most common cause of your breast hardness would be a capsular contracture at seven months following your augmentation. However, there are other possible causes that could be more serious. Therefore, you definitely should see your operating surgeon.

Hardening of a breast implant

You should go back to your doctor for a check. Hardening around an implant is generally caused by scar tissue called a capsular contracture. This is the most common complication of breast implants. If yours still look okay, you might be fine or maybe even just had a little muscle spasm. If they start to look different, you will probably need a revision with scar removed and a new implant inserted.