Malpractice or not? Displaced implant and capsular contracture (Photo)

Question

Last July I had a breast lift and implants done become displaced on R side. Had two more surgeries afterwards to fix displacement for it to still happen again. Since last surgery in Dec L hasn’t dropped and has capsular contracture and R is severely displaced under armpit again. I have retained a second opinion as I don’t want my surgeon going in a 4th time he had a lot to say and feels confident he can fix. I’ve lost a lot of money and time working 3 surgeries in 5 months is this malpractice ?

Chul Hwan Seul, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Judging from the photos you sent, the current condition does not appear to be very serious, so it would be better to massage the raised implant down for up to one year after the last surgery and wait while taking a medicine that can soften the capsula. Revision surgery can be performed at least after several months have passed and the tissue has stabilized, but it is sometimes done earlier depending on the situation. It is difficult to determine whether malpractice has occured without an accurate judgment of the situation.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Bwilliams544,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No, it is not malpractice, but is bad luck. You had very sagging breasts with lots of skin to start with which makes the augmentation much more challenging.  You also need to avoid heavy lifting and pushups for at least 3 months to prevent your muscle from flexing hard and pushing your implant out to the side.

Malpractice or not? Displaced implant and capsular contracture (Photo)

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Malpractice or not? Displaced implant and capsular contracture (Photo)

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