One Breast Harder After Breast Implants Doctor Answers, Tips
Breast Implants: Q&A
Ask a Question

One Breast Harder After Breast Implants

I got breast implants 12 years ago. I've just noticed that the left side is a lot harder all of a sudden. Is that normal, or should I be worried?

7 Doctor Answers | Asked by HARDLEFT in york,pa
+1

See your surgeon

Hello, Most likely, you have developed some capsular contracture after your breast augmentation. I would see your surgeon to have the situation properly evaluated. Contracture usually happens gradually.
+1

You probably have encapsulation but it is not a health hazard

Hello Visit with a board-certified plastic surgeon. He/she can tell you whether, indeed, you have cap[sular contracture. Most importantly, one needs to make sure that there is not a breast lump or other breast process causing the hardness. Your doctor may recommend a mammogram, MRI, or ultrasound. If it is a capsular contracture, we usually go on symptoms. If it is hard an painful, it may need surgery. If it is only moderately harder than the opposite side and you are not having symptoms... more
+1

You have a capsular contracture.

Hi!  This is a cosmetic problem, which can become uncomfortable, and you may well want it corrected.  But it does not affect your health. What happens is the normal internal lining around the implant contracts and makes the implant feel hard.  We don't always know why this happens.

You might also like...

Real Stories

Breast Augmentation In Tijuana B.C Mexico HELP!! - Mexico, MX

Hello everyone. Im 21 and have a son whos 4 and to all you ladies that have had children,...

Before + After Photos

View 4162 Breast Implants photos
+1

Time to visit a plastic surgeon

 Whether this happened suddenly, or gradually, this may be a capsular contracture around the implant.  You should visit your doctor or another and have it checked.  You will probably need surgery to improve this situation, just make sure to do both sides.
+1

Really all of a sudden?

Do you mean all of a sudden as in over a few hours or a few days? While it would be unusual for a capsular contracture to occur spontaneously after 12 years, it can happen, particularly after a flu-like syndrome or pregnancy. Capsular tears can occur that causes a hematoma that would feel hard, possibly painful and enlargement of the breast. You should see a plastic surgeon if this seems to be the case.
+1

Don't fret --- see a qualified physician

It is now time for you to see your plastic surgeon - or a new one if you have moved. There is no reason to worry , but you may have  a capsule and need another surgery to correct it.
+1

Late capsule contracture can be sign of implant wear

After 12 years we can expect implants to wear and leakage can occur. In the case of a gel implant t tightening of the capsule may be the first sign that the implant has worn. The process can be a gradual one and can go unnoticed until the implant is quite firm. This is a good time to seek out a good plastic surgeon. If your original surgeon is still in practice all the better. Your records may still be available to determine what size and style of implant you are currently wearing, though... more
Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

Welcome Back

Sign in with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account? Create one now.

Join RealSelf

Join with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Please enter a valid email address
 Did you mean ?

By creating an account, you are indicating that you have read and accept the RealSelf Terms of Use.

Already a member? Sign In.

Retrieve your password

Enter your username or email address and we will send you a link to login.

Check your email

Check your email. We've sent you a link to reset your password.

Ok