Is capsular contracture in lump form in one spot? Is this the beginning & is it going to get worse? 1 year post op (Photos)

Question

Breast augmentation done in July 2016. I noticed a large lump on my left breast on the outside closest to my arm. The lump is hard and came about recently. I saw a specialist who said it is not a cyst and will require more testing (mammogram, ultrasound). He said it is very rigid and I can basically grab it. Im wondering if this is capsular contracture? Can capsular contracture be in one large lump that is rigid and painful? The rest of the breast is soft and doesn't look out of shape.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

This does not sound like a capsular contracture.  I would continue to pursue the imaging and work up by the specialist.

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs.  Your description does not indicate the signs of a capsular contracture.  My advice is to follow-up with your physician for examination and probable ultrasound scanning.  Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ..........................,based on your description, it id not likely that you have a capsular contracture. However, to be sure an examination is required. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon in case you are concerned.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Kachenmeister, MD · Answer

Thank you for reaching out and sharing photos. What you are describing is not typical of a capsular contracture, I think it is best to continue with a mammogram or ultrasound to find out exactly what it is. Best of luck. Dr. Kachenmeister

Matthew L. Romans, MD, FACS · Answer

You absolutely need to continue the tests to determine what this lump is. It could be scar tissue, but a capsular contracture does not usually occur in one spot like this. Mammograms, ultrasound, and possibly even a biopsy should be able to make the diagnosis.

James C. Pietraszek, MD · Answer

Capsular Contracture is where the entire breast becomes firmer than a natural breast. The space shrinks in size, contracts, squeezing the implant, making the breast firm,  sometimes even almost as hard as a rock. What you are describing is a firm mass in the breast. This should be worked up to make the diagnosis, and I would agree with getting a mammogram and ultrasound, and even a biopsy of the mass if indicated. I would recommend you also consult with your surgeon who performed your Breast Augmentation.

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally, a capsular contracture surrounds the entire implant.  What you describe does not seem to describe a contracture.  Follow up with your tests-Mammogram and ultrasound.  Also let your plastic surgeon know about your tests.  Best wishes.

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture is generally global in the breast not one spot. It is not easy to tell from you photos but examination makes it pretty easy to tell. If you do have a contracture it can be handled with surgery for them most part if needed.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo's.  From what you describe it is not capsular contracture and I would consult with your Plastic Surgeon as well.  A capsular contracture would affect the whole breast , not a part of it, can be tender, and also contract upward with that breast appearing higher then the other.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is not likely a capsular contracture based on your description.  Continue with the advice of the specialist to determine the nature of the lump. A visit to your surgeon may give you more information as well.

Is capsular contracture in lump form in one spot? Is this the beginning & is it going to get worse? 1 year post op (Photos)

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