Lateral capsulorrhaphy and implant replacement of 20 year old implants

Question

I am having 20 year saline under the muscle implants replaced with a lateral Capsulorrhaphy since implants are going into my armpits. Dr. will be sewing up the sides of the pocket. I exercise 4 days a week and lift, so am very concerned about the recovery and exercising again with my upper body. I also Google a lot and saw one woman say she couldn't lift or exercise for 3 months per doctors orders. Why is my doctor only suggesting 6 weeks? Will this operation be more painful then my first?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear nytonjgal,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If your current implants are under the muscle, this surgery will not be as painful. Since your surgeon will be tightening your lateral pockets, he/she does not want you exercising and pushing the implants toward that newly closed area so it will heal and stay closed.

Cassie Nghiem, MD · Answer

Hi, excellent questions. I think 6 weeks without exercise is very reasonable. There is a lot of information on Google - I would trust your doctor's advice over that information. Pain is variable between the first and second operation. Since the under the muscle pocket is already developed, the pain of implant replacement will likely be less. However, the lateral capsulorrhaphy may hurt more depending on whether or not you have deeper sutures (down to near the rib) and how much work needs to be done. Hope that helps.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

The revision procedure should be much less painful that your original procedure.  I agree with 6 weeks off from the gym to allow the scar tissue to heal and support the new pocket.
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Lateral capsulorrhaphy and implant replacement of 20 year old implants

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Lateral capsulorrhaphy and implant replacement of 20 year old implants

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