Can a bacterial infection from an ear piercing lead to capsular contracture? 6 months post breast revision.

Question

4 months after the breast revision I had my ear pierced (on the impuria part).. Everything was fine. 2 months later I’ve decided to have my cartilage pierced (helix). I took an antibiotics 32h after the procedure of piercing my cartilage because I started to feel pain in my chest. The burning sensation and occasional numbness is still there, 6 days after the piercing. Should I be worried? Is it possible that I’ve got bacteria infection again and that could lead to capsular contracture?

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

It is extremely unlikely that ear piercing could lead to bacterial spread and then to capsular contracture. Having said that, you should definitely see your surgeon to help figure out what is happening.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. That is unfortunate that happened. It is very odd and rare to have an infection from your ear piercing in your breasts 4 months after breast augmentation. Usually we are more worried about teeth infections or joint replacements for something of which you described. Burning sensation and numbness is not a sign of a bacterial infection. I would go to back to you plastic surgeon for a proper assessment prior to restarting any type of antibiotic. capsular contracture is not well understood and can have many reasons as to why they occur what we call increased risk factors and an infection to the breast area is one of them.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear marie0804,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, any infection anywhere in the body can go to one of both of your implants and cause a capsule. This is the main reason for a late capsule. Please avoid future piercings and tattoos and take antibiotics prior to dental work.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It would be very rare for a localized ear infection from a piercing to cause capsular contracture.  Especially so if you are taking oral antibiotics.

Can a bacterial infection from an ear piercing lead to capsular contracture? 6 months post breast revision.

Answers (5)

Answer: Capsule

Answer: Capsule

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

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Can a bacterial infection from an ear piercing lead to capsular contracture? 6 months post breast revision.

Answers (5)

Answer: Capsule

Answer: Capsule

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.