Breast Symmetry post augmentation concern (Photo)

Question

I had breast augmentation one year ago and have noticed that my right breast is quite different than my left one. It’s off to the side and feels like it’s falling into my armpit. I feel like it’s pulling to the side. At my 1 year check-in my doctor commented on this issue and suggested that I take Montelukast for for three months. I am wondering what is happening with this breast and if this medicine will really help the asymmetry. I’m hoping to get a second opinion on what’s happening.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Your surgeon is prescribing a drug that has been proven not to be effective with your issue, capsular contracture. Although it may subtly soften the firm breast, it will not allow it to settle back into a symmetrical position. You will need surgery.

Jonathan Landon, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question! Your doctor most likely placed you on Montelukast as an attempt to mitigate and/or improve capsular contracture. If your breasts feel firm, tight, or painful, these are all signs capsular contracture could be occurring/have occurred. Without an exam in-office, it is impossible to say whether or not contracture is the underlying cause of the asymmetry. As always, we recommend speaking with your surgeon if you're experiencing any negative outcomes so they can work with you to develop a strategy to move forward. Hope this helps!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear alicia1290876,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It appears from your photo that you may be developing capsular contracture.  This is when the scar capsule that is around the implant begins to tighten around the implant.  It can cause the appearance to become distorted and in some cases can even hurt.  I've included a video on capsular contracture that I hope you find helpful.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

it is difficult to give you much meaningful information based on this one photograph. Your one breast seems rounded up and may have an element of capsular contracture. Your plastic surgeon is the best person to make this determination. There are probably a number of ways result could be made a little bit more symmetric, but any further surgery would be decided between you and your plastic surgeon.

Breast Symmetry post augmentation concern (Photo)

Answers (5)