What are the Signs of Capsular Contracture following Breast Augmentation?

By Dr. Surjit Rai

Although it only happens to a small percentage of breast augmentation patients, capsular contracture is one of the most common complications of breast enlargement surgery. For that reason, it is important to know the signs of capsular contracture following breast augmentation. Capsular contracture causes hardening of the breasts and can cause distortion. It is often a painful complication. In extreme cases, it can affect mobility. Capsular contracture can be treated.

Signs of Capsular Contracture following Breast Augmentation

Symptoms typically appear within two years of surgery, but can appear later. They tend to come on gradually, and can include:

• Increasing firmness
• Tightness which becomes uncomfortable or painful
• Breast that seems too high
• Misshapen breast
• Breast that is too round or ball-shaped
• Rippling
• Hardness of the breast
• Change in the appearance of the breast skin
• Change in color of the breast
• Pain which causes limited mobility in the shoulders and upper body
• Feeling that the chest is constricted

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing capsular contracture, including:

• Bacterial infection
• Hematoma or seroma as a complication of surgery
• Inadequate skin to cover the implant size
• Severe breast trauma
• Autoimmune disorders
• Radiation therapy

Choosing a skilled and experienced breast augmentation surgeon can minimize your risk of developing capsular contracture following breast augmentation. If you are considering breast enlargement, in the Dallas area, please contact the Cosmetic Surgical Center to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Vasdev Rai.