does lifting weight (upper body exercises) make capsular contracture get worse?

Question

I've had CC on my left breast for 9 months. It' prbly grade 3. The implant has moved upward and towards my armpit. I love lifting weights at the gym, and I noticed that when I lift heavy, my left breast becomes painful for a few days. My question is, does lifting weight (upper body exercises) makes cc get worse? Does working out pec muscles make the implant move under the armpit? Should I not do any upper body exercise?

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

To my knowledge capsular contracture has no relationship to weight training. As far as your symptoms, capsules can cause pain and capsules to tend to trap the implant higher than it would normally sit. I would recommend you meet with your surgeon and explore your options to alleviate your symptoms.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

No, I do not think that heavy lifting makes capsular contracture worse. It is possible however that heavy lifting can cause shifting of the breast implants,  especially to the sides or inferiorly. My guess is that the pain you experience after lifting may be related to muscle strain etc. Best to seek consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons for more specific advice. Best wishes.

Charles Cope, MD · Answer

Hi. Weight lifting does not affect capsular contracture, but if you have submuscular implants and you do a lot of weight lifting, especially pec. exercises then over time this can pull the implant towards the armpit. However, it is more likely that the capsular contracture is progressive, and that you may need it operated on. Regards Dr Charles Cope

Sheila Bond, MD · Answer

I am not aware of any relationship between lifting weights and capsular contracture. If your implants are beneath the muscle, lifting weights will tend to pull the implant up and laterally. If you capsule is very tight this may cause pain at the breast or you may be having more muscle pain at this side. Speak with a board certified plastic surgeon and be examined to see how tight your capsule is and discuss treatment options.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As other surgeons who stated that I do not think weightlifting will make her capsular contraction worse.  My guess is that discomfort after weightlifting is due to the pressure of stretching and pulling on the capsule.  However I do not think this will make it get worse.U considered a capsulotomy, removal of the capsule and placement of a new textured implant with acellular dermal matrix?'s these newer techniques can prevent recurrence.

does lifting weight (upper body exercises) make capsular contracture get worse?

Answers (5)

Answer: Capsular contracture and weight lifting

Answer: Capsular contracture and weight lifting

Answer: Weightlifting should not make a capsular contraction worse.

Answer: Weightlifting should not make a capsular contraction worse.

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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does lifting weight (upper body exercises) make capsular contracture get worse?

Answers (5)

Answer: Capsular contracture and weight lifting

Answer: Capsular contracture and weight lifting

Answer: Weightlifting should not make a capsular contraction worse.

Answer: Weightlifting should not make a capsular contraction worse.

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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.