Cold or Flu before Breast Augmentation. Will this make me have capsular contracture?

Question

I am finally getting over my cold but now I have an ear infection. I have not taken any antibiotics just Tylenol. I’m scheduled for breast augmentation surgery in 8 days on 2/4. Will this make me have Capsular contracture or have any cons for Post OP recovery?

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and I hope you feel better quickly.  Typically it shouldn't increase the risk of capsular contracture if you were recently sick.  Active bacterial infections can cause a higher risk of a capsular contracture.  I would suggest speaking with your surgeon and addressing this concern with them.  Each surgeon will have their own protocol on which they prefer to follow when it comes to illnesses prior to surgery.  Best of luck to you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi lovejanedoe,Capsular contracture is a condition that occur when the tissue surrounding the implant area tightens and contracts around the implant, resulting in unnaturally firm, distorted breast shapes that can sometimes be painful.
Correction generally requires removal of the implant, removal of the scar tissue, pocket repair, and fat grafting or new implant placement. If caught early enough, capsular contracture can sometimes be improved with medication and massage techniques. 
  
We do not know what exactly causes capsular contracture but we do know several evidenced based techniques that can be used to prevent it from happening in the first place and to help prevent it from coming back for revision cases.
  
If you are concerned, it would be best to visit your plastic surgeon for proper assessment. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations. 
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Usually, surgery is postponed until after sickness or infection clears up. This is for your safety, as it can increase your risk of developing complications and prolong your recovery. For this reason, I recommend telling your surgeon as soon as you can about your condition.

Roger Tsai, MD · Answer

Great question!  I always err on the conservative side.  Since this is an elective procedure, you would want to decrease the risk as much as possible.  If you have an active infection, then yes it can lead to an increase rate of capsular contracture as the bacteria circulating in your blood can seed onto the implant.  I would recommend you wait until you feel better to have the surgery.  Again this is an elective procedure so there is no rush!  Best to stay safe.Best of luck and hope this information helps!
- Dr. Roger Tsai  @DrRogerTsai
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well. based in your question its recommended if you see your doctor to check this problem with your breast and indicate antibiotic.

Craig S. Rock, MD, FACS · Answer

Recent illnesses that have resolved should not pose a risk.  I would, however, avoid placing breast implants while there is an active infection anywhere in the body, as I am unable to justify taking any potentially increased risk for an electively scheduled procedure.Ear infections may worsen under anesthesia, and an active infection may increase the risk of implant complications.I would recommend contacting your surgeon as soon as possible to discuss the situation and determine the best way to proceed.Best wishes.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

There are still many unknowns about causes of breast contracture. However, cold, flu and ear infection, providing that you are fit for surgery once infection is resolved, should not have any effect on formation of capsular contracture after breast augmentation. Good luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  I would contact your surgeon's office to discuss your recent illnesses as delaying your procedure may be more prudent as the risks of general anesthesia and implant complications may be too high.  Hope this helps.

Paul M. Parker, MD, FACS · Answer

Address your ear infection to resolve that before your surgery. If you do, your risk of CC should not be any higher than normal.

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