Felt incredibly sick, sever flu-like symptoms (popping joints, aching shoulders, chest pressure, popping middle of back), feel some better, now on antibiotics. Have a doc app on Mon. w/ a MD, breast specialist, to rule out anything related with the breast tissue (had a mamo, & doc was unfamiliar with the "halo" around my R-implant) Want to make sure I am heading in the right direction? I am looking for a PS in California, who deals with this specific issue? thank you for your time and insight.
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Hello,It is likely you have a sudden accumulation of fluid around the implant known as a seroma, and that was what caused the halo on the mammogram. This will need to be analysed with ultrasound and drained if possible, unless definitive surgery is planned. It is important that you find a cosmetic breast surgery expert that takes care of all aspects of breast surgery.Best of luck!
Dr. Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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should be managed aggressively and that would start with an operation to remove the implant and capsule (if possible) then a reaugmentation with new implants on both sides. Drains are possibilities. It isn't normal for such swelling so far down the road and you need to find out what may be causing it. In my practice, observation is not an option.
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Swelling following BA can be due to a fluid collection. Hardening of the breast is usually related to capsular contracture. I recommend an examination in the hands of an expert who will provide the proper diagnosis and possible studies for this condition.
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Yes, your right breast is significantly bigger. This can be the results of a mastitis (inflammation of the breast tissue) or issues related to the implant. Infection of the implant with scar or fluid formation can happen at any time, even 19 yrs later. More information is necessary, and your surgeon may consider an ultrasound or an MRI. You are headed in the right direction by seeking out the advice of a board certified Plastic Surgeon.
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I am sorry to hear about the problem you are experiencing. A good diagnosis and treatment recommendations would necessitate a complete history, physical examination, and a review of any radiographic imaging that has been performed. Having said that, I think that the most likely explanation for the "swelling" this far out of breast surgery is a fluid accumulation around the breast implant. It is most likely that revisionary breast surgery will be necessary to "correct" the situation. Seek consultation with well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience with revisionary breast surgery. You may find the attached link helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.
