Does working out hard create capsular contraction?

Question

I just had my third Capsulectomy and of course the doctor doesn't want me to work out for three weeks which I'm fine with. I train 6 to 7 days a week pretty hard and I'm wondering if that contributes to contracture. Especially of course chest work .. if it does I will really be careful about not over training my chest in the future..

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question and I hope your recovery goes smoothly.  Working your chest muscle does not pose an increased risk of capsular contracture formation and you should be able to return to your former activities without issue.  The leading thoughts on capsular contracture indicate that bacterial colonization of the tissues/implant are the cause of the scar tissue hardening.  Hope this helps.

Ricardo A. Meade, MD · Answer

Although it can be difficult to pin down the exact cause of capsular contracture, what we do know about the causes of capsular contracture does not indicate the exercise would increase your risk. That said, if your plastic surgeon has recommended that you avoid strenuous physical activity for the next few weeks, it’s important to heed that advice. As for working out in the future, though, this shouldn’t be a problem.

Mark Crispin, MD · Answer

In a word no.  Fit people have very little fat to hide capsular contracture or implants.  At times repeated capsular contractures are addressed with acellular dermal matrix (tissue)  to try and prevent further contractures.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Capsular contracture is not completely understood but exercise is not felt to be one of the causes.  However, if your surgeon feels you should avoid exercise for a set amount of time I would recommend following their advice.  They are in the best position to assess your healing progress.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Generally speaking working out with contraction of the pectoral muscles should reduce the chance of capsular contracture and help keep the normal capsule around the implant large and distended so that the implant can freely move.  However vigorous workouts early after surgery in the first 4-6 weeks, if they cause bleeding, can increase the chance of a recurrent capsule.  Please follow the specific advice of your plastic surgeon.

Does working out hard create capsular contraction?

Answers (5)

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