8 weeks post op - left breast harder than right. Should I go and see my PS? Is this normal?

Question

My right breast is soft to the touch. If I squeezed it, it feels completely real. While my left one on the other hand, when I squeeze it, it feels like you can feel the implant in there and its a bit hard. My left breast is also a bit bigger than my right and it's also sitting a bit higher as well. I can't sleep on my stomach because of the pressure, and I can't lay on my left side because it tends to hurt. Should I go and see my PS? Is this normal?

David E. Kim, MD · Answer

If you were my patient I would wonder why you were on this forum when you could just call or e-mail me or come in to see me.  It's one thing to check for different opinions for complications or treatment etc. But nothing can replace actually seeing and feeling your breast to know what is going on. So yes of course call your plastic surgeon if you are concerned.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  It's normal for your breasts to be healing at different rates, but I would at least call your PS and get their opinion.  They might suggest a visit to the office to rule out any complications.  Best of luck!

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

It takes a while for your implants to soften, to settle.  There is nothing to be done at this time.  Be patient for 3-4 months.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

I find it generally takes 3 to 4 months for breasts to soften and settle after breast augmentation.  That being said, the way you describe your situation at 8 weeks, I think it would be reasonable to see your PS to be assessed for possible early development of capsular contracture.  There are various non-operative treatments that can be instituted at this point, and if one starts earlier, there is a better chance of possibly alleviating the situation and avoiding future surgery.  All the best.

Angela Champion, MD · Answer

I wouldn't worry just yet because you are just 8 weeks post-op.  Everyone heals at different rates and it's not uncommon for one breast to settle before the other one.  It would be best if you can go see your surgeon for a follow up appt for an exam just to rule out any possible complications, but be patient, try not to worry and continue your surgeon's post-op instructions until then.  ac

Brent Birely, MD · Answer

It is common for one breast to be slightly different at your stage post op. You are probably OK, but definitely make an appointment to see your surgeon.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear justwantedtoknow,

From your description, it appears that the left breast is
somewhat firmer than the right breast. 
This may be an indication of an early capsular contracture.  If it larger and more highly-displaced, there
may be fluid, such as a seroma or blood, in the pocket.  At this point, my best advice would be to
seek the co-management of your plastic surgeon, as they are in the best
position to determine what steps may next be taken. Any postoperative ultrasound will determine
if there’s any fluid in the pocket.  It
is my experience that at eight weeks, aggressive and vigourous breast massage
can result in significant softening of the breast and allow it to drop into the
right aesthetic position in the pocket. 
Do not attempt this without seeking the advice of your plastic
surgeon.  I’m sure that all will turn out
well and you’ll have an excellent aesthetic breast figure, body, contour and
shape.

I have been performing cosmetic breast augment
surgery for 20 years.  For more
information, please review the link below. I hope this information has been of some assistance and best
of luck.

Sincerely,

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

If you are experiencing hardness in one breast at 8 weeks following a breast augmentation, you may be developing a capsular contracture around the breast implant.  Let your surgeon know about your situation.  At this early stage there are non-surgical options of treatment including breast massage and oral anti-inflammatory medications, which may help.  If the situation persists after a trial of these treatments, then a surgical capsulotomy or capsulectomy may be considered.

8 weeks post op - left breast harder than right. Should I go and see my PS? Is this normal?

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