Do I have early signs of capsular contracture? (Photos)

Question

I had breast augmentation in 2015. I haven’t had any major issues other than some nerve damage on the sides of my upper body. Most recently I started feeling a sharp pain that comes and goes under my left breast and when I push on it the pain leads mid way to my cleavage area. I opted for Natrelle silicone cohesive gel high profile under the muscle inframammary incision. Wondering if this is early signs of capsular contracture or something else. Can someone try and confirm based on my photos?

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos. Generally speaking, capsular contracture is diagnosed based on firmness of the breast. Cohesive implants are, by their design, somewhat firmer than other implants. Displacement of the implants and pain are usually seen later, but may be the first presenting symptom. Shooting pain that comes and goes is usually a symptom of nerve injury. This is more common with larger implants as gravity continues to pull on the breast tissue over time. My best advice is to see a board certified plastic surgeon, preferably your surgeon. They are best able to continue with any diagnostic studies (possibly MRI) and possible treatment. Best of luck.

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear nessaxoThank you for your questions and photos!  It is hard to determine capsular contracture from photos . Clinically you may have early signs - and a trial of Singulair if not contra - indicated may be of benefit . There are also protocols with ultrasound and LED light along with Milk Thistle that some  people have trialed .With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Todd B. Koch, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture is a clinical diagnosis. This diagnosis cannot be made by photographic evaluation alone. Severe cases of contracture would reveal one breast implant to be significantly higher and firmer than the other.  When social distancing is relaxed schedule an appointment with your surgeon.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear nessaxo,The symptoms of discomfort that you are experiencing are not uncommon even without capsular contracture.  Early capsular contracture diagnosis would require an examination by your plastic surgeon.  Good luck!

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Late obvious CC can be seen in photos but early signs need physical exam. But what CC looks like is the involved implant feeling harder than the other when you pinch between your fingers and it looks like it is going higher and fuller up top on that side. When you have new symptoms around an implant is doesn't necessarily mean CC but you should go and get a mammogram and ultrasound just to be safe and see your doctor in person.

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE TREATMENT PROVIDERS NEAR YOU

Do I have early signs of capsular contracture? (Photos)

Answers (5)

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE TREATMENT PROVIDERS NEAR YOU