11 days post op of Breast Augmentation, one of my breast feels hard as the other feels normal and soft. Is this normal?

Question

Im left handed so I typically use my left hand more, could it be that I damaged something by using my hand at an early stage. Could have I developed a contracture?

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You are very early in the postoperative recovery period.  Capsular contracture is a process that happens over years and is thus not a concern at this point in time.  A couple of things to note--the skin may be tight after placement of the implant and this takes time to relax and soften.  If one side is significantly tighter than the other side, this could be a sign of a hematoma and is something your surgeon should evaluate.  Best of luck

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

If there is a significant difference in tightness you should report this to your plastic surgeon. It is not a capsular contracture but it could be a hematoma. This should be drained.

G. Robert Meger, MD · Answer

MarryAnne:  What you are describing is very common.  One breast always seems to heal more quickly than the other.  This is perfectly normal and probably nothing to worry about.  There is a very small chance however that you have developed a pocket of blood or other fluid around the implant which would present as one side being larger and more firm than the other.  Probably best to visit your surgeon for an exam to rule this out.  It is too early in your postoperative course to have developed a capsular contracture.Good luck to you!

Adolfo Sesto, MD · Answer

At this early stage is normal that you have difference between both breasts.Possible causes :One can be more swollen than the otherIf implants are under the muscle, there is a possibility of developing an unilateral contraction of the pectoral muscleYou may be in the early stages of a contracture of the capsuleGet a consultation with your surgeon, ask him about physical therapy with ultra sound, it may help, as the use of muscle relaxant.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon at all for the breasts to have some differences while healing. There are too many variables to know why yours does. Are the implants the same volume? Did one side have a lift? Is one side bruised and one not, etc, etc.It is too early for capsular contracture as the capsule has not formed yet let alone contracted. Best to discuss your concerns with your surgeon. They know exactly what was done.

Jeremy Pyle, MD · Answer

What you describe is unusual after a breast augmentation. Subtle differences from side to side are common but you may be describing what is called a hematoma.  I would recommend calling your surgeon as soon as you read this to see about getting in to see him or her today.Best,Dr. Pyle

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is very early after your recovery and it is not uncommon for one side to feel firmer than the other.It is very common for the implant on the side of your dominant hand to feel softer in the implant on the opposite side.If you are concern please visit your plastic surgeon for an examination but I doubt if you have caused any problems simply using your hand.

11 days post op of Breast Augmentation, one of my breast feels hard as the other feels normal and soft. Is this normal?

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