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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

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

August 2nd, 2010
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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 72 reviews

Shoulder problems and breasts

July 30th, 2010
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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
4.1 out of 5 stars 23 reviews

Breast implants cause shoulder scar tissue problem

July 29th, 2010
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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

Breast Implants do NOT cause Shoulder Joint Scarring

July 28th, 2010
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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

Peter A. Aldea, MD
Memphis Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 100 reviews

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