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

Ira H. Rex III, 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.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You appear to have developed a capsule the medication can help soften the capsule and I would suggest adding external ultrasound treatments.  Please follow up with your surgeon.

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.

Jeremy Powers, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your photo and description, I think your surgeon is concerned about capsular contracture. Montelukast is anti-inflammatory and may help soften the capsule. If this is not effective, further surgery may be necessary to release or remove the tight capsule, with exchange of the implant. If this becomes necessary, most implant companies have warranties for their implants that cover capsular contracture and should help cover the costs of the replacement implant and surgery. Best of luck with your continued recovery.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make an accurate assessment regarding the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure we generally need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures.
If you don’t have before, and after pictures, then ask your surgeon to forward the picture they took.
All people have breast a symmetry.
In regards to your right breast it looks like either the implant is sitting high, you have slightly more ptosis on that side, or a combination of both.
The medication you were prescribed is sometimes used for capsular contractions.
Did your doctor tell you you have a capsular contraction?
Continue following up with your provider or schedule in person second opinion consultations with other providers in your community.
For second opinion consultations I recommend patients come prepared bringing with them to complete set of proper before and after pictures and a copy of your previous operative report.
These are all available from your current providers office if you request them.
 Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Breast Symmetry post augmentation concern (Photo)

Answers (8)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

What role does BWD play in breast aug?

34AA wanting full B cup and natural look. How to choose between 225cc and 205cc?

Implants changing 2 years post-op, is this normal?

Am I a candidate for breast augmentation if I am currently taking medication for bipolar disorder?

Issues with breast aug 6 months after surgery (Photo)

Hashimoto's and Breast Implants?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS