Broken capsules after mammogram?

Question

Is it feasible that my capsules can be broken after a mammogram? I experienced terrible breast pain/burning and inflammation. Lasted about 7 weeks. Back pain accompanied with pec tightening. Feeling better a bit but pecs super tender.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to visit with your surgeon for an examination.  An ultrasound can be performed to check on the integrity of your implants.  It would be unusual but not impossible for the capsules to be damaged from a mammogram if enough pressure was applied.

Lily Lee, MD · Answer

It depends on the mammogram technique, but I suppose it is absolutely possible. In fact, once upon a time, plastic surgeons used to perform closed capsulotomies by basically putting a ton of pressure on the breast, hoping to rupture a thickened or misshapened capsule. The capsule is merely scar tissue that forms around your breast implant. Your body's way of walling off the implant. As long as your actual implant has not been ruptured, having a rupture in your capsule should heal just fine with some rest.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It is possible that you could have experienced a rupture from a mammogram.  It is rare, but obviously can happen.  You may need an ultrasound to see if the implant is damaged as well as muscles bruised.  See your plastic surgeon for an exam.

Broken capsules after mammogram?

Answers (4)

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