9 months post op, am I experiencing capsular contracture?

Hello awesome29237,

Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about potential capsular contracture nine months following your breast augmentation surgery. It's important to address each of your symptoms to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Capsular contracture, as you may know, involves the formation of scar tissue around breast implants, which is a natural response by the body. It's graded from 1 to 4, with Grade 4 being the most severe, characterized by significant hardening, pain, and distortion of the breast. Your description of firmness and pain does suggest some degree of capsular contracture.

However, the other symptoms you've mentioned – nipple discharge and the presence of an air pocket – aren't typically associated with capsular contracture. Nipple discharge, in particular, warrants further evaluation by a healthcare professional, as it could be indicative of other conditions. Similarly, the existence of an air pocket and dog ears (excess skin at the end of an incision) at this stage in your recovery isn't standard and might need surgical intervention.

I highly recommend revisiting your plastic surgeon to discuss these issues thoroughly. For capsular contracture, a conservative approach might include medications such as Singulair, usually prescribed for a three-month period. However, the overall treatment plan should be personalized based on a detailed examination of your specific case.

I hope this response sheds light on your situation and assists you in seeking the appropriate follow-up care. Do not hesitate to seek a comprehensive evaluation to address all your concerns adequately.

Wishing you a smooth recovery and satisfactory resolution to your postoperative concerns.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Photos would have been very helpful. Your surgeon can easily trim dog ears in the office under local anesthesia. Please ask for this to be done. I am not sure what you mean by an "air pocket" because air left from surgery quickly absorbs. However, gummy implants are firm and may make more noise than the softer varieties. I suggest going back to your surgeon and discuss your concerns.

Capsular contracture can make the breast feel and look different and may even be painful. Based on the description of the changes you have noticed it is best to visit with your surgeon for an evaluation. Treatment for capsular contracture varies depending on the severity. I've included a video that I hope you find helpful.

To make an assessment on the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure we generally need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures. If you don’t have before and after pictures, then contact your provider and ask them to forward the pictures they took. You should also follow up with your provider regarding any concerns you have about the outcome of your procedure.
With limited information, we can’t give you any quality answers to your concerns.
Your surgeon should be able to address each of your problems for you and help you understand why your upcoming looks the way it does.Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD