Signs of capsular contracture after breast augmentation?

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?

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6 answers to “Signs of capsular contracture after...”

A: How to diagnose capsular contracture

Lavinia Chong, MD

The reality is that all women who have implants will develop some scar tissue or capsule around the implant.  The degree of firming around a breast implant is categorized according to the Baker system: I: soft, natural; II slightly firm, implant edge not visible; III firm, implant edge visible and... more

A: Capuslar contractures following breast augmentation may require further surgery

Sanjay Grover, MD

Capsular contracture, or hardening of your breast implants, may be mild or severe. If mild, one can generally leave it alone; however, if severe, the implant can get quite hard or firm and cause some discomfort. Additionally, the implant can look deformed and migrate upwards causing asymmetry of your breasts.... more

A: Capsular contracture

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Dr. Williams has provided an outstanding concise answer regarding capsular contracture. Now in answer to your specific question, it is NOT the implant. It sounds as if you have a Baker Grade 2-3 capsular contracture. Implants generally do not get harder or do not dramatically change shape with... more

A: Capsular Contracture Answers

Steven H. Williams, MD

Thanks for the question, Olive. Capsular contracture is something that I help my patients with frequently. One of the most common reasons for people with implants to have additional surgery is capsular contracture.  There are four grades of breast capsular contracture - The grading is as follows: Grade I... more

A: You probably have some contracture

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello,  Contracture is expected to some extent after the placement of breast implants. It is a matter of degree and time, really. Frequently, the contracture is mild and we leave it alone. More severe contracture can raise the question of treatment. Silicone gel implants over the long term are very prone... more

A: If the implants have begun to project more prominently...

Richard P. Rand, MD

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... more

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