Cold or Flu before Breast Augmentation. Will this make me have capsular contracture?

Hi lovejanedoe,Capsular contracture is a condition that occur when the tissue surrounding the implant area tightens and contracts around the implant, resulting in unnaturally firm, distorted breast shapes that can sometimes be painful.
Correction generally requires removal of the implant, removal of the scar tissue, pocket repair, and fat grafting or new implant placement. If caught early enough, capsular contracture can sometimes be improved with medication and massage techniques.

We do not know what exactly causes capsular contracture but we do know several evidenced based techniques that can be used to prevent it from happening in the first place and to help prevent it from coming back for revision cases.

If you are concerned, it would be best to visit your plastic surgeon for proper assessment. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Usually, surgery is postponed until after sickness or infection clears up. This is for your safety, as it can increase your risk of developing complications and prolong your recovery. For this reason, I recommend telling your surgeon as soon as you can about your condition.

Great question!  I always err on the conservative side.  Since this is an elective procedure, you would want to decrease the risk as much as possible.  If you have an active infection, then yes it can lead to an increase rate of capsular contracture as the bacteria circulating in your blood can seed onto the implant.  I would recommend you wait until you feel better to have the surgery.  Again this is an elective procedure so there is no rush!  Best to stay safe.Best of luck and hope this information helps!
- Dr. Roger Tsai  @DrRogerTsai
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon