Is there a test I can do to see if I am developing capsular contracture?

Question

I am 3 months post op and knew i would have issues with my Left breast. I feel as though my left is a big harder(but then again i, not sure if it has to do with the face that that implant is 25CC's bigger than the Right). They are both a big hard but I dont know if the fact that im athletic has anything to do with this(implants are under the muscle). Is there a test i can do to see if i am developing CC, i feel as if i have grade 2 CC and fear it getting worse as time goes on. Is this in my head??

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello, 
Thank you for your question.
You are still early in your recovery and it is
too soon to make a final judgment on their appearance. It may take up to 6
months for your final results. Should you be concerned, it may be best to book a follow-up appointment with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for a proper assessment. 
All the best.

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear Zenqueen,   Front and side view pictures would have been very helpful to answer your question. However, from your description of your breasts, it sounds like you have , indeed, capsule contracture.    If you have performed implants displacement massage,usually,  by 3-4 months after surgery, the implants settle and the breasts are soft.  There is no test for capsule contracture, but physical exam will determine immediately if you have that condition.    Go back to your surgeon or consult with any experienced board certified plastic surgeon and your question will be answered easily.                 Best of luck,                                    Dr Widder

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  It is unlikely that a capsular contracture has developed this quickly to cause the pain/hardness at this point postoperatively. There are no tests...just physical examination determination - with surgical options as necessary. I would follow-up closely with your surgeon who will discuss various garments, exercises, or massaging. Most likely, normal swelling is present, especially if no other signs/symptoms of postoperative issues are present.  It typically takes 3-6 months to resolve and the implants settle/swelling subsides. Hope that this helps. Best wishes!

Ivor B. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.    .   I would call you surgeon and make an appointment to be seen if you are concerned.   He/she will be able to advise you.         Best of luck

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture is a diagnosis based upon physical exam and physical complaints.  There are no blood tests to determine this.

Is there a test I can do to see if I am developing capsular contracture?

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Answer: Test for capsular contracture

Answer: Test for capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

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Is there a test I can do to see if I am developing capsular contracture?

Answers (5)

Answer: Test for capsular contracture

Answer: Test for capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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