Does Capsular Contracture Make You Feel Ill?

Question

I was told weeks ago that I need to have more breast surgery. I am starting to feel very ill, but with no pain. My implants, filled to 700 cc, are getting very hard. Does capsular contracture make you feel ill inside?

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there-
Capsular contracture can be uncomfortable, and when it progresses will certainly cause deformity and detract from the results of Breast Augmentation, but should not cause feelings of illness.
I would recommend that you see your family doctor or gynecologist to be sure something else isn't going on for which you need treatment- then you'll be able to pursue the necessary improvement in your breasts with greater peace of mind.
Good luck.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

One of the most common problems is breast capsular #contracture or the development of thickening, and contracture of the capsule that exists around the breast implants. Severe capsule contracture probably occurs in less than 15% of augmentation patients. Every woman has a breast capsule around their implant and this is a normal phenomenon. The capsule itself could be as thin as Saran Wrap but may also become calcified and thickened. As it thickens and shrinks, the patient may develop a feeling a firmness of the breasts and in its worst situation, the breast may become painful and abnormal in appearance, achieving a very round, hard, and uneven appearance. There may be distortion and possible breakage and leakage of an older implant, but may also include a newer #implant. Nicotine users, such as smokers, have up to a 30x increased risk of #capsular contracture.

Saline implants may deflate spontaneously. When the patient has significant #symptoms, complete or partial leakage of their saline implant, or concerns regarding silicone leakage, it is recommended that the implant is removed and exchanged. Frequently, this is performed on both sides depending upon the age of the implant. Capsulotomy or opening of the capsule may be required or frequently capsulectomy, which is removal of the scarred capsule, is recommended to ensure adequate pocket dimensions.

New implants may then be placed in the same existing position or may undergo a change of #placement frequently from submammary to subpectoral position and, on occasion, the other way around.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture is when there is abnormal scarring around your implant, tightening it and causing the breast to feel firm. The breast may also look abnormally round or elevated. This can sometimes be treated without surgery, but if the problem persists, you may need surgery. I recommend you go back to your surgeon to have your breast checked out as soon as you can. Best of luck. It is associated with pain as well, but not really with a general "ill" feeling. However, you may be feeling ill due to the stress you're experiencing. Please see your surgeon as soon as you can for an evaluation. Best of luck.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

One of the leading theories of cc is that a low grade, indolent infection causes the vigorous scar tissue that leads to contracture.  If this is true in your case and it is removed you may feel better.  Also, the contracture can cause discomfort and that could drag you down.
sek

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Capsule contracture after breast augmentation should not cause any illness, however if the implants are very firm and causing stress and worry they could cause you to feel unwell.  You have a very full augmentation and the  rounding up and hardness can be a lot to bear. Pain or a drawing sensation is more common.
A breast infection can cause you to be ill and infection will be associated by breast redness, tenderness, low grade fever, and fatigue. If you do feel very ill it is well worth a trip to the doctor to discuss how you are feeling. I suggest a call to your plastic surgeon, and a visit to your family doctor for a checkup.
Concerning capsule contracture, surgery is effective in reducing the capsule less than 50% of the time. The need for more surgery should be weighed against the potential for an improved outcome. You may have to start asking yourself if the hardness is something you can live with if it continues or recurs, and what the options might be if you cannot.
Best of luck,
peterejohnsonmd

Does Capsular Contracture Make You Feel Ill?

Answers (8)

Answer: Should not, but possible

Answer: Should not, but possible

Answer: Capsule contracture should not cause illness

Answer: Capsule contracture should not cause illness

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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

Does Capsular Contracture Make You Feel Ill?

Answers (8)

Answer: Should not, but possible

Answer: Should not, but possible

Answer: Capsule contracture should not cause illness

Answer: Capsule contracture should not cause illness

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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