6 weeks post op, have I developed capsular contracture? (photo)

Question

Have I developed capsular contracture? I’m 6 weeks post op and my right breast is higher than my left breast. Right breast does seem just a bit more firmer than left.

Joseph Mele, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture at 6 weeks after surgery is unlikely. More likely, one side is settling faster then the other. See you plastic surgeon. Get checked, and see if there is anything that can be done to help the high side catch-up.

S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for this interesting question.  It would have been helpful if you would have sent a pre operative picture of your breasts as the post operative picture you sent could have had multiple causative factors. Some of your RealSelf experts have stated that 6 weeks is too early to get a capsular contracture.  This theory was debunked in a paper written by Dr. Robert A. Ersek, of Austin, Texas discussing the ability of capsular contractures to occur in the first week after breast augmentation.The picture you provided possibly is an early capsular contracture on the right, but when I see your picture, it looks more like a tuberous (constricted) breast with insufficient release below the areola and an apparent short distance from the nipple to the inframammary fold.  At this point, I believe it is appropriate to have an in person exam by your personal plastic surgeon, discuss possible causes of your right breast malpositioning, and also possible treatments.

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

Six weeks after augmentation there is still swelling present and the implants have not settled. Mild asymmetries at this point are common, and most resolve over time. While you may be developing a contracture, it is more likely the implant asymmetry is due to malpositionat the time of surgery, or fluid accumulation around the implant. I usually recommend vigourous massage and use of a band over the top of the breast to assist the implant settling. If this fails to occur in a reasonable period of time, surgical revision will be necessary. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon and follow their instructions for post op care.

Jeff T. Healy, MD · Answer

It is highly unlikely that you have developed capsular contracture this soon after surgery.  You are still going through the healing process.  It is very normal for one breast to settle sooner than the other side.  I find that the implant on the dominant side (right side if you're right handed) will often take a little longer to settle than the non-dominant side.  The muscle on the dominant side is usually stronger and is being used more than the other side after surgery which keeps the implant higher longer.  Be patient and follow-up with your surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear pgalindo,
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast augmentation surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process at 1 days  post op.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues around the implants are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides and the implants drop to their final position, you will be able to see the final result of your breast augmentation surgery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

H. Daniel Zegzula, MD · Answer

Without an exam it is impossible to tell but at this point during your post op course it is unlikely.  You should discuss this concern with your PS and follow their advice.  Some might recommend wearing a bando or increasing massage or wearing or not wearing certain bras.  Every surgeon has their own post operative protocol and you are early in the recovery process.  Follow your surgeon's advice.

Marcus Davis, MBBS, MRM, FRCSEd (Plast) · Answer

Dear Pgalindo,
Congratulations on your recent surgery and thank you for the question and picture.
You definitely do not have a capsular contracture as it is far too soon to have even developed the capsule around the implant, let alone for it to contract.
From your pictures your left side seems to have dropped to its resting position whereas the right has not as yet. If you have a breast band to wear over the top of your breasts then I would advocate that you use this to try to push the implants down whilst at the same time going bra-less, so long as your wounds are all healed and robust, that I suspect they will be by now.
If you have concerns then of course consult with your Plastic Surgeon.
Give it time as it is still early days and I am sure the right side will drop and that you will be happy with your results.
Best wishes,
Marcus

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your surgery!

It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.

It is crucial to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is important for healthy results.

It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place. Should a revision cross your mind, it is best to wait at least 6 months to a year before doing so.

Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).

Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.

During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

6 weeks post op, have I developed capsular contracture? (photo)

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