Will a Capsule Contracture Make my Breast Look Bigger then Other One at Top?

Question

I am four an half weeks after surgery , my left breast has a rock hard lump above nipple , is this a contracture ? And is this why my breast hangs lower an softer at bottom it hurts too ? I had a breast lift and implants above muscle silicone !

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photos.  During the post-operative period the breast are swollen, and the breast implants appear in a much higher position.  Over time they descend and fills out the lower half of the breast. In addition, it is not uncommon for one breast to be more swollen than the other and may even out with time (unless they were asymmetric in size to begin with).  It may take several months for this to happen and can be encouraged with breast massage and compression.  It may appear that the breast enlarges as the lower aspect of the breast fills out (at the expense of the upper portion of the breast).  At four weeks, it may be difficult to assess for a contracture as you are still healing.  I would visit with your plastic surgeon to be assessed.

Eric Swanson, MD · Answer

Your description does not fit a capsular contracture. That rock hard lump is probably scar tissue (obviously photos would help). You will know if you develop a contracture because the breast gets firm and tend to get displaced upward, not downward as the capsule squeezes it into a spherical shape. Talk to your surgeon. Probably just need to give it some time.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture does not clear that early after surgery. Something else is going on that should be checked upon by your surgeon.

Rigo J. Mendoza, MD · Answer

Without pictures, it is very difficult to make any assessment. However, since you had a lift done as well, you would expect more scarring and swelling. You should call your PS and discuss your concerns.

Angela Champion, MD · Answer

Without photos it is difficult to say, but at 4.5 weeks post op breast augmentation with lift, it's too soon to worry. The hard lump you are feeling may be scar tissue and swelling but you really should see your surgeon for an in-person exam to address your concerns. ac

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

No this is not a capsular contracture.  It does sound like the left implant is higher than the right causing the breast tissue to fall off of the implant.  Given time this should improve.

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

Dear Niki,

	thank you for your post.  However, a photo helps a lot in the discussion.  This may be a capsular contraction, although this is very early.  This may be asymmetrical implants. Swelling can feel really hard at first as well. Follow up with your plastic surgeon as he can make a better assessment than we can.

	Best Wishes,

	Pablo Prichard, MD

Will a Capsule Contracture Make my Breast Look Bigger then Other One at Top?

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