How do you know for sure if you have an infection in breast implant pocket? Is it likely to return after reimplanting? (Photo)

Question

I had BA a year ago. Dr told me I had cc after 4 wks. But they both dropped and softened soon after that. Then they both developed grade 4 cc. Hard as coconuts. Both were hit then left turned red and both softened. Was put on antibiotics and felt better. Then underwire bar irritated right. Turned red and painful. Put on antibiotics cleared up felt better. Right has dropped and is always a little sore. I get UTI occasionally antibiotics make breast feel better. How do I know if I have infection?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Infections with implantsyour case is confusing.   it is possible to have a subclinical or chronic low grade infection. treatment choices are difficult.. you can take the implants out for 3-12 months and then re -implant or try a protracted course of oral antibiotics for 2-3 months.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Your story is confusing.  If your breasts are now soft, it is unlikely you have an infection, but with your history of response to antibiotics, and soreness, then a chronic low grade infection with a non aggressive bacteria must be considered.  I would consult with your surgeon, and describe your response. Your photo does not show deformation of the breast which would occur with a severe capsule.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Its pretty unlikely that you have an acute infection after a year, especially one that comes and goes as you describe.  It is possible that capsular contracture is caused by a more chronic low-grade infection.  The caue of all this is something you will need to explore with your plastic surgeon.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Infection can be diagnosed based on symptoms, and a definitive diagnosis can be made based on bloodwork and cultures. To get cultures from a capsule would require surgery

Adrian Richards, MBBS, MSc · Answer

Thank you very much for your question. It does sound as if you have a low grade
infection in your breast.The cause of capsular contracture is not
100% known but is possibly related to low grade infection.This would tie in with the fact that your
condition does improve when you are on antibiotics.Interestingly breast implant infections are
more common in people who do have recurrent UTI’s as the bacteria from this can
spread in the blood and settle on a foreign object such as a breast implant.I think if you do have tender, painful
breasts with significant capsular contracture the best option may be to remove
the implants and the capsules so that your breasts are back to normal
tissue.You can then either leave the
implants out for a time to clear the infection or insert the implants during
the same operation.I would wish you the best of luck with this
in future.AR

How do you know for sure if you have an infection in breast implant pocket? Is it likely to return after reimplanting? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Blood work and tissue for culture

Answer: Blood work and tissue for culture

Answer: It does sound as if you have a low grade infection in your breast...

Answer: It does sound as if you have a low grade infection in your breast...

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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How do you know for sure if you have an infection in breast implant pocket? Is it likely to return after reimplanting? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Blood work and tissue for culture

Answer: Blood work and tissue for culture

Answer: It does sound as if you have a low grade infection in your breast...

Answer: It does sound as if you have a low grade infection in your breast...

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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