Breast tenderness - what can be done to help stop capsular contracture from getting worse?

Question

I recently had my 16 year old 250cc under the muscle saline implants exchanged for 405cc under the muscle silicone implants due to CC. I had to go under the breast vs the nipple. I’m having pain and tenderness on both sides of lower breasts, more on the side that had CC. Could it be nerves regenerating? Or CC again? Anything that can be done to help stop CC from getting worse?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture remains the most common complication of breast augmentation, with rates reported between 0.5% and 30%. Despite extensive research, the cause of capsular contracture remains unknown. Two main theories address the underlying cause: subclinical infection and hypertrophic scarring. Hypertrophic scarring is thought to be secondary to a hematoma, seroma, or silicone gel bleed.
Surgical placement of the prosthesis in a retropectoral pocket has repeatedly been proved to decrease the risk of capsular contracture. This has led many surgeons to preferentially use the subpectoral plane.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

While pain is a possible symptom of capsular contracture, it is not a direct indicator of what may be occurring.  I encourage you to visit with your surgeon for an evaluation.  She/He will provide direction based on your discussion and the results of the assessment.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Thrifty869065,
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

If the old capsules were removed, you will have pain in that area initially from surgery.  You also went larger which does stretch your tissue more.  Oral Accolate could be added to help minimize the risk for capsule formation. Please discuss this with your surgeon.

Breast tenderness - what can be done to help stop capsular contracture from getting worse?

Answers (4)

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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Breast tenderness - what can be done to help stop capsular contracture from getting worse?

Answers (4)

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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