Do I have Capsular Contracture? 1 week and 1 day post-op (Photo)

Although capsular contractures following breast augmentation can occur just about any time, most women start having symptoms around three months after their breast implant surgery. This is because it takes some time for a capsule to form and then to scar down (contracture). Therefore it might be too early to see signs of CC but you should check with your doctor and relate your concerns. Capsular Contracture is a condition in which the capsule surrounding the implant thickens and contracts, squeezing the implant making it overly firm or hard and often changing the shape and position of the implant. As the capsule contracts it moves the implant further up your chest wall making upper portion of your breast too large and unshapely. It is more far more common in nicotine users (e.g. smoking, vaping or nicotine gum or patches).Good Luck!

Thanks for the question.Its too early to talk about capsular contracture. In my practice, after performing a BA I recommend to my patients to limit the movement of the arms for two weeks. After that, you can move your arms taking care and always with common sense. In this regard, it's not advisable to carry heavy weights to prevent the implant out of position, and allow the formation of the physiological capsule around the implant, also to avoid pain and breast swelling.Kind regardsDR. Emmanuel Mallo.-

I agree with most of my colleagues. There is early tightness and swelling and in our practice we routinely use muscle relaxants such as low dose diazepam (Valium) to help alleviate this, and when indicated an upper bandeau to help reduce some of that upper pole swelling. The other critical point in our post operative instructions is to take it very easy and avoid strenuous activity such as lifting, excessive arm movement, household work such as vacuuming and laundry, using caution with car doors and back doors in SUV's, etc. Your appearance is consistent with early helming, but it is best to check in with your surgeon regarding your concerns and being mindful of taking it very easy. Good luck. 

Thanks for your question and picture.  You are very close to your post-op date and looks like your breasts just need to settle a bit.  I would speak with your doctor regarding massage and light exercise to get everything to relax a bit.  You will continue to see changes over the next weeks to months that will speak to your final result.  If you are worried about capsular contracture, make an appointment to speak with your surgeon and have an in-person physical examination.All the best,Steven Camp MD#HappyCamperMD 

From looking at your photos your breasts look tight because I think of the size of the implant.This early there is still some swelling that needs to go down.Maybe some massage would help and a breast strap.

Contractions are normal at this stage of recovery. They are coming from your muscles contracting on your implants. They will settle with time. It is too early for contractures to set in. Relax.

It is highly unlikely to have a cc this soon after surgery. You are likely experiencing normal post-op discomfort and swelling. You need to allow the breasts to heal. If concerned, follow-up with your surgeon.

I am sorry to hear about the concerns you have but you can have peace of mind that capsular contraction is not the culprit. What you are describing is most related to muscle spasm.  I would suggest: rest  and close follow-up with your plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

No, you do not have capsular contracture. Your capsule is not even formed yet. From your description and your photos everything sound completely normal and it looks great for this early. Be patient!

You can not develop a CC in one week.  Capsular contracture essentially is a thick scar that forms around your implant - this takes time (i.e.. months).  Tightness and swelling are normal in the early post-operative period that you are currently in.  Your plastic surgeon will walk you through this.  Until then take it easy, try and relax during the healing period and let your body do its work.