Breast stiffness after breast augmentation- 12 day post op. Can this mean capsular contracture? (Photo)

Question

Hi! I've had my breast augmentation 11 days ago (370cc; silicone; under the muscle) My breasts are very stiff and not moving anywhere. I am not sure if this is normal or if I should be concerned? I am still experiencing discomfort, and i cannot lift my elbows above the level of my shoulders. In the morning it is still difficult to get up. I tried to massage them and move the implants, but it's painful, and they barely move. Can this mean capsular contracture? Many thanks

Paul Whidden, MD · Answer

At only 11 days post surgery, your implants will feel very firm and will not move at all. This is totally normal. You should notice your implants becoming softer within the next several weeks. By six weeks post surgery they will look much better and begin to move a little. The implants will continue to soften, settle and move more for 9 months. If you were to develop capsular contracture it wouldn't become apparent until at least 3 months with one breast becoming consistently firmer while the other continues to soften.Your result looks great at this early phase of healing. Be patient and you should have an excellent result.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI Mara, I agree with the other doctors who have replied. Most likekly your stiffness is due to swelling which is very typical after a breast augmentation. You might try icing the breasts a little bit every day, if this is OK with your plastic surgeon. Sometimes it is helpful to sleep with your arms on a few pillows to ease the lymphatic drainage. You might also ask your plastic surgeon if a muscle relaxant could be in order as well.Hope this helps.Best,Dr. Rodgers

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

At 12 days there is just the beginning of capsule creation after breast augmentation. Any rigidity would be due to swelling.

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the pics. It looks like you will have a great result. Way to early to worry about contracture. First of all, it is very uncommon. Secondly, it takes months and months or even years to develop in those unlucky few. The type of implant used accounts for the firm feel as well as overall swelling. If you have an anatomic shaped textured device it will definitely feel more firm. Best of Luck!

Stuart A. Linder, MD, FACS · Answer

It is way too early to detect capsular contracture. Please be patient and discuss with your plastic surgeon. Tissue expansion exercfses may be useful soon as well as vitamin E.

Breast stiffness after breast augmentation- 12 day post op. Can this mean capsular contracture? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Swelling should resolve

Answer: Swelling should resolve

Answer: Scar tissue

Answer: Scar tissue

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Breast stiffness after breast augmentation- 12 day post op. Can this mean capsular contracture? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Swelling should resolve

Answer: Swelling should resolve

Answer: Scar tissue

Answer: Scar tissue

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.