Are runners less likely to develop capsular contracture?

Question

People that run are they LESS likely to develop capsular contracture because the breast implant is being moved around/bounced around more than non runners thus keeping the pocket opened more?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about breast augmentation.Running, in general, does not make a difference for or against the development of capsular contracture.It is thought that micro-bacterial contamination plays the most significant role in the development of capsular contracture.For my patients, I recommend the use of a Keller Funnel.To be sure, see two or more board-certified plastic surgeons in your area for a full and complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have surgery.I hope this helps.

Gavin Sandercoe, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hi MwestyThere is no evidence linking capsular contracture to any form of exercise, or lack of.The current theories of capsular contracture mostly revolve around bacterial contamination at the time of the implant surgery. Haematomas (or blood collections) are also related, as they can cause inflammation as they dissolve, as well as provide nutrients for bacterial growth. Surgeons prevent these from occurring by ensuring that all bleeding is completely stopped before placing the implant, and using shields on nipples and incision sites. Some of us (I do) use the Keller Funnel to minimise the chance of the implant ever touching the skin.There are some patients that form heavy scars even with good surgery, and that cannot be prevented.It is important not to cause stretching forces as your body forms the capsule around the implant, so I recommend that my patients do not restart running for 6 weeks. When you do restart running, you need to wear a very supportive bra, or consider two sports bras, for a few weeks.Good LuckDr Gavin Sandercoe

David Dellinger, DO, FACOS · Answer

For my patients who are runners, I recommend patients wear a very supportive sports bras or in some cases, wear two bras. This minimizes the "trauma" associated with the bouncing nature or running. Avoid weight training which isolates the "pec" muscles as well

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

It certainly seems feasible, when I was training in Montreal one of staff would always say that. He felt very strongly about it. I believe there are a few things associated with capsular contracture, one of them being biofilm, which I consider an important issue. Regardless, running could be considered an aggressive massaging of the implant.Stephen M.Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

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

A good question. I am unaware of any study that proves runners have fewer capsular contractures. However I believe in breast implant displacement exercises and anecdotally running and being active can increase implant motion which I believe is a good thing. However it is important to wear a supportive sports bra when running. Too much downward displacement of the implant without support could cause sagging.

Are runners less likely to develop capsular contracture?

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