Do I have capsular contracture?
my breast implants are now 10 years old and stick out more. They feel somewhat harder, but is this the implant or capsular contracture? How does a doctor determine if a patient has this problem?
Asked by: Olive, Richmond, VA
Answers (3)
If the implants have begun to project more prominently forward and feel harder, they are almost certainly being surrounded by exaggerated scar tissues known as "capsular contracture."
This can be left alone if it doesn't bother you too much or it can be treated surgically. The options for surgery include removing the scar tissue and replacing the old implants with new ones in the same location as before (ie above or below the muscle). Alternatively, especially if the old implants were above the muscle, changing into a new pocket under the muscle is often performed.
Breast implants can change shape over time due to scar tissue
Breast implants, both saline and silicone, can become surrounded by scar tissue. When that happens, the scar tissue can squeeze the implant into a sphere shape, which can become too firm. This can make breasts appear to have an unnatural shape and to "stick out more".
You did not mention if your implants were filled with silicone or saline. If they were filled with silicone, it is also possible that the implants are leaking. The silicone will ooze out of the implant and become surrounded by scar tissue. (When saline implants leak, they usually deflate.) Your doctor can order an MRI of your breasts to look for evidence of silicone leaking out of the implants.
If your implants are surrounded by thick scar tissue that is causing problems, you may have the option of having a procedure where the implants are removed, the scar tissue is removed, and then new implants are inserted. Another option is a trial of a medication called Accolate. Accolate is usually used for asthma, but it can make a significant improvement in capsular contraction.
Hard breasts could be capsular contraction
Olive,
From what you describe, it appears that you may have capsular contraction.
There are different levels of capsular contraction and it doesn't have to happen to both breasts. Essentially what is occuring is the scar tissue that normally surrounds the implant is getting tighter and tighter. As this occurs, the implant will start to get squeezed. At first, people notice the implant seems a little firmer to them. As the contraction progresses, the implant seems to distort its shape and appear higher on their chest and even look a little smaller. Further contraction of scar tissue can result in discomfort and actual coolness of the skin and tissue around the implant.
The contraction can be anywhere along the continuum I just described. Your doctor will be able to tell mostly by comparing one breast to the other and looking for major discrepancies in softness and shape. If they are both contracting, your doctor will likely base the determination on ideal conditions.
It appears that you are already able to feel the difference from where you were 10 years ago. Many people live with it unknowingly, while others seek treatment from cosmetic dissatisfaction or discomfort. Although there is no guarantee that it won't come back, it can be successfully treated, if necessary.
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