Upper body workouts causing discomfort long-term

Your symptoms are highly suspicious for a capsular contracture. Your surgeon can confirm this with a physical examination. A visit to your surgeon would be appropriate at this time to obtain a diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

Hello, thank you for your question. I recommend you follow up with your plastic surgeon if you can, if not you should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. It sounds as if you may have capsular contracture, and this can be fixed and even sometimes covered with a warranty. Best of luck.

Dear harris2025,

I understand your concern. Based on your description, It can be capsular contracture. 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I recommend an in person evaluation with a plastic surgeon. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Please see your surgeon about this. It could be capsular contracture and if it is, it should be addressed as soon as possible.

It sounds like you may be developing a capsular contracture. This is consistent with your description. Seems like it is time to get and evaluation by a plastic surgeon to fully assess this and discuss any options.

Your implant is over 10 years old and you have had multiple surgeries on that side. If a discomfort is muscular, it will improve in about 1-2 weeks. However if the discomfort or tightening is lasting more, it could be due to capsular contracture caused by either your previous surgeries or implant rupture ( if your implants are silicone, otherwise a saline rupture is felt like a rapid decrease in size). You need to see your surgeon.

Thank you for your inquiry! Without being able to see the area, it is hard to determine what is happening. We would love to sit down with you and review your options. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to discuss your goals.

It is possible that you are getting capsular contracture. Certainly, implants are more painful behind the muscle with upper body exertions. However, capsular contracture may be the cause and you need to be evaluated in person. You may need a mammogram or ultrasound to look at the capsule and see the position.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Based on your description it is very likely that you have breast implant contracture. Considering that you already had few surgeries in that regard your next option should be implant replacement and placement of ADM graft to prevent further contractures. Expensive but works!