Do I have Capsular Contracture? (Photo)

Thank you for your question and for your photos. Based on the photos provided, I do not feel that you have capsular contracture. Capsular contracture is a response of the immune system to foreign materials in the human body. Medically, it occurs mostly in context of the complications from breast implants and artificial joint prosthetics. I would recommend that you follow up with your surgeon for a full examination and to have all your questions answered.

Hello and thank you for your question and sharing your photos. Capsular contracture is best diagnosed by physical examination, and is characterized by firmness on palpation, and deformity and pain in severe cases. Some degree of asymmetry is not uncommon after breast augmentation, particularly if there was some asymmetry prior to your surgery. I would suggest that you see your surgeon for an evaluation and advice. Best,

Capsular contracture can be diagnosed during a consultation with your plastic surgeon. A plastic surgeon easily notices even minute signs of capsular contracture, along with well-defined signs like hardening of the implant and distortion in shape. Some may even experience a sensation of constriction or feeling heavy-chested when the capsule starts to tighten.  In a few cases, the affirmation of capsular contracture is done through a mammogram, MRI, or ultrasound. None of your narrative points to your having capsular contracture.The left implant is higher and does appear smaller.  However, if the pocket is tight, this would explain the look.

Not looking like contracture from the pictures you posted, but to know for sure an in person evaluation by a plastic surgeon is needed. Checking with your surgeon about your concerns might provide some reassurance.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee

Thanks for your question!  Based on the photos alone, I'm unable to tell if you have a capsular contracture or just normal asymmetry from the scoliosis.  I would recommend an in-person exam with your plastic surgeon to determine exactly what is going on.  Good luck!

Dear Ladylove08,
in most cases, capsular contracture will cause breast asymetry, breast will feel firmer and there will be pain. Capsular contracture affects people approximately one in 20.  No one knows exactly what causes it and what can prevent it completely. It's important for your doctor to use a minimal incision and a Keller funnel as a sleeve to protect the implant from touching anything before goes into the breast pocket.  Singulair has been shown to prevent it.
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. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice. 
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Unfortunately without before images to compare any underlying asymmetry, it is difficult to offer definite advice as your results may be appropriate.  Overall they are well within an expected result.  Although there is no discrete evidence of capsular contracture, this is a diagnosis that requires an in-person evaluation of your implants.  Hope this helps.

Thank you for your question! Based on your description, it does not sound like you are experiencing capsular contracture. I do recommend you schedule an appointment to see your board certified plastic surgeon for a follow up exam. Best of luck! 

The answer to your question would be determined during a formal consultation.  While the pictures did not suggest that you have a significant issue with capsular contracture, I recommend that you see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in consultation to more specifically answer your question.

Based on the pictures it does not seem you have capsular contracture, HOWEVER, this can only be diagnosed based on a physical exam in conjunction with the typical symptoms associated with contracture. I suggest you see your plastic surgeon if you are concerned about this. Regards,

Dr. Ravi Somayazula

You can follow us on Instagram, Face book and YouTube- bodybyravi

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery- American Board of Medical Specialties

Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)- Subcommittee Task Force on Patient Safety

Member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)

Member of the Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons