Can a capsular contracture seem to suddenly appear overnight? (Photo)

Question

I had my silicone implants done about 7/8 years ago and a few days ago I noticed my right breast was very swollen and very hard. My breasts had been feeling fuller recently (100% not pregant) and I put it down to possibly hormone related. It was almost like overnight it had changed? I'm waiting see a consultant in a weeks time. After searching online I saw an article about capsular contracture and wondered if that's what could of happened to me. I'll add a picture to. Many thanks.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Unlikely that capsular contracture will occur overnight.  Sometimes, injury and bleeding can occur (normally in one breast) and this can lead to capsular contracture.  Definitely go to your board certified plastic surgeon for a physical examination.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

Although there are possible other reasons for your breasts to be swollen and firm, it is also possible that this is a manifestation of capsular contracture. Although it is usually a slow progressive event, you may have not noticed the early changes. Other possible causes could be bleeding or trauma to your breast which could have caused firmness and swelling or possibly a muscle injury. Your plastic surgeon will take a good history and with a good exam can give you a better idea. Good luck.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture is insidious and manifests itself over many weeks. However might reach a critical point where the patient first artist to notice it. If your breast indeed did become firm overnight this should be reported to your plastic surgeon fairly quickly as it may suggest a seroma particularly if texturized implants were placed.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You  may not have noticed it before, but you may have a capsular contracture which would best be evaluated in person .

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Kate, Thank for sharing your excellent question and photos about capsular contracture seeming to happen almost overnight.  This is an unfortunate experience for some breast augmentation patients and while capsular contracture doesn't commonly present "immediately overnight", it can present in different ways in different people.  If you're able to see your plastic surgeon in person sooner than a few weeks from now I'd encourage that. Thank you for sharing your breast implant question and I hope this has been helpful.  -Brian S. Coan, MD, FACS

Can a capsular contracture seem to suddenly appear overnight? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: #capsularcontracture after my #breastaugmentation #breastimplants 7 years ago

Answer: #capsularcontracture after my #breastaugmentation #breastimplants 7 years ago

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Can a capsular contracture seem to suddenly appear overnight? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: #capsularcontracture after my #breastaugmentation #breastimplants 7 years ago

Answer: #capsularcontracture after my #breastaugmentation #breastimplants 7 years ago

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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