5 1/2 month post op afraid of left implant encapsulated over the muscle (Pohto)

Question

Oct 12, 2023 i got 510 cc silicone high profile in both boobs. I started very very small, around an a cup. Now I believe i am a solid small D. My right implant has given me 0 issues. My left has felt a little more firm than right, and seems to be its a little more circular? The pain is around 5 out of 10 Most days it doesn't hurt. Im not sure why it is not dropping the correct way? I am scared i messed something up in the left implant.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear corrinenc,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is common for the breasts to heal at different rates.  However at 5 1/2 months post op you should not be experiencing pain or tightness regularly.  It's best to return to your surgeon for an evaluation and discussion of your concerns.

Dana Goldberg, MD · Answer

Encapsulation is rare in the first six months after surgery, but I’ve had a few patients developed it. In studies, it is more common above the muscle than below.

If it is capsular contracture (or “cap con”), there are some ultrasound based physical therapy protocols that can soften it. Also, some evidence shows that singulair can be taken by mouth to soften the capsule.

If those options do not work or if you do not want to try them then it is a wait-and-see game. Cap con can stop and stabilize, or it can progress. In rare cases, it can sometimes even seem to reverse itself.

If, in six months, you still have concerns, you may require surgery to remove the capsule. In my practice, I incorporate antibiotics and allograft placement into revision cases to minimize the chances of it coming back. Stay in close touch with your surgeon, since several of the silicone implants come with a warranty for cap con for a few years after surgery.

Tyler Frew, MD · Answer

Hi there,
It could be the beginning of a capsular contracture but you will need a physical exam to confirm this. Hard to tell fully from the photos but your left breast may also be bottoming out vs laterally displaced. Again, a physical exam by the surgeon could help clarify the issue. 
All the best

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have developed a capsule on the left side. go back to your surgeon and be checked. Sometimes it can be improved without surgery if you do not delay.

5 1/2 month post op afraid of left implant encapsulated over the muscle (Pohto)

Answers (6)

Answer: Get an exam by your surgeon

Answer: Get an exam by your surgeon

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

5 1/2 month post op afraid of left implant encapsulated over the muscle (Pohto)

Answers (6)

Answer: Get an exam by your surgeon

Answer: Get an exam by your surgeon

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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