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Breast Implants Cause Shoulder Scar Tissue Problem?

I had implants in 1981, still have them. I know they have encapsulated. Recently, I had rotator cuff surgery and then a capsulated shoulder. I can feel what I think is scar tissue between my right breast and my problematic shoulder. Could the implants have contributed to my shoulder scar tissue problem?

Doctor Answers 4

August 2nd, 2010

Breast implants, capsular contracture and a shoulder rotator cuff problem or injury

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I agree with my colleagues that the implants are not likely a cause of your shoulder problem. However, a pectoralis muscle that is bound up by a capsular contracture can give you the sensation of tightness and pulling.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD


Chicago Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 86 reviews

July 30th, 2010

Shoulder problems and breasts

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It is highly unlikely that your shoulder problems have anything to do with you having breast implants. 

Steven Wallach, MD

Steven Wallach, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
4.2 out of 5 stars 30 reviews

July 29th, 2010

Breast implants cause shoulder scar tissue problem

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Very hard to examine you over the internet! So seek opinions in person from boarded surgeons. Yes there can be a relationship between the scar tissue in both areas. Get this checked out. From MIAMI Dr. B

Darryl J. Blinski, MD
July 28th, 2010

Breast Implants do NOT cause Shoulder Joint Scarring

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Regarding: "I had implants in 1981, still have them. I know they have encapsulated. Recently, I had rotator cuff surgery and then a capsulated shoulder. I can feel what I think is scar tissue between my right breast and my problematic shoulder. Could the implants have contributed to my shoulder scar tissue problem?" .  There is no medical or anatomical relation, much less causation, between your breast implant scarring and your shoulder issues.

Peter A. Aldea, MD
Memphis Plastic Surgeon

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