Could I be experiencing capsular contracture 6 months after my breast lift with implants? (photos)

Question

I had surgery with a well known Dr in Turkey that I had researched a lot about. I had a lift with implants placed under the muscle 300cc. At first they looked great, perky and high as I wanted. As the months have gone on I’ve noticed the left one is riding higher and I have a sore lump to the outer mid part of the breast. I also think they may have been placed too close together. My surgeon keeps saying to wait they will settle but I have some pain in the left side. Help?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Private girl,
capsular contracture happens. In fact, every implant has a capsule form around it, its just a certain percentage develop thick capsules. There is a lot we don't know about it actually. Some think that bacteria that gets on the implant during insertion can increase the risk. Thats why we use a Keller Funnel in our practice to reduce that possibility. Our capsular contracture rate is less than 2% because we use a keller funnel as well as meticulous operating room techniques.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

Ellen Ozolins, MD · Answer

It's possible that the symptoms you're describing&mdash;pain and the implant seeming higher on one side&mdash;are signs of capsular contracture, particularly if they occur six months after the surgery. An examination is essential to give you an accurate diagnosis and go over the possible management with you. Medication, massage, or, in certain situations, surgery to replace the implant and remove scar tissue may all be part of the treatment approach.

Gregory Lakin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It's possible that the symptoms you're describing—pain and the implant seeming higher on one side—are signs of capsular contracture, particularly if they occur six months after the surgery. An examination is essential to give you an accurate diagnosis and go over the possible management with you. Medication, massage, or, in certain situations, surgery to replace the implant and remove scar tissue may all be part of the treatment approach.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry and pictures, but without an exam it is harder to advise.  Your implants generally fall over the first few months, and now at six months they may not move much more.  You either have implant malposition or bilateral encapsulation left worse than right.  Please discuss with your surgeon your options.

Tyler Frew, MD · Answer

Hi there,
You certainly could be experiencing capsular contracture, especially if your feel the shape of one or both of your breasts are changing. 
Implants typically start high on the chest and drop into a lower position in 3-6months. If they are getting higher instead of lower that is a major sign of cap/con, especially in the lower portion of the capsule. 
I would start by going to a plastic surgeon in your area and getting a physical exam. Contracture is easy to diagnose on physical exam. 
Also, check with your implant company about your implant warranty. Some companies cover/reimburse cap/con patients who undergo revision surgery within the first two years of their original surgery.
All the best

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At six months post op you are seeing your final results.  You may be experiencing capsular contracture even this soon from surgery if your implants are changing and moving higher.  I encourage you to visit with your surgeon for an exam.  The lump that you mentioned also should be evaluated.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

It is hard to say based on photos alone but it appears, without examining you, that you have symmastia. Looks like your implants are too close together and the nipples are being displaced laterally. I would see your surgeon and be examined to know for sure. If you do have symmastia you would need a revision surgery and likely smaller implants to repair it. IT is possible you have a capsular contracture also going on but my first order of business would be to ensure the implants are in the correct location.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, they are a bit too close together and may be too large for your frame. Once does sit higher so you may have a capsule. go back to your surgeon or see someone who will check you.  It is always best to do surgery where you live so you can have follow up care.

Could I be experiencing capsular contracture 6 months after my breast lift with implants? (photos)

Answers (8)

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