I have scar tissue under my left implant. How can I break it down?
Good morning.
I found a small lump in my left breast in January 2016. Three days later I called and visited my doctor. She ordered a blood analysis and some other tests. All negative . I immediately underwent five surgeries. In December of that same year, my left breast was hard and pulling up towards my shoulder. I have tried different methods, but the implant is still hard and raised.
Answers from doctors (4)
Unfortunately, you can not help the capsular contracture by massaging the scar tissue or "breaking it down" in any way. Your solution is to undergo another surgery in which a tissue expander may be used or an AlloDerm graft may be implanted to minimize the likelihood of a recurrence of the problem.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It sounds like you have capsular contracture, or scar tissue surrounding your implant. This may be related to the surgeries you had. The treatment is surgical removal of the scar tissue and replacement of the implant. See a board-certified plastic surgeon for an exam to confirm that this is the diagnosis and to discuss treatment.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It sounds like you have capsular contracture on the left side. It makes the implant hard and pulls it up. The only way to release the contracture is to remove the capsule around the implant and exchange the implant. If it has been put on the muscle, change the pocket and put if under the muscle.
There is not enough information in you questions to be able to give you a more precise answer.
It would be best to see your plastic surgeon for advice.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Your clinical progression is suspicious for capsular contracture. This refers to a progressive hardening/thickening of the scar/capsule which surrounds the implant. It may begin as a palpable hardening. It can progress to a visible distortion of the breast and finally a painful tightening. They can be recurrent and challenging to definitively treat.
The etiology is unclear. However, many believe it is related to biofilm and chronic inflammation. In the setting of cosmetic augmentation textured devices have been shown to lower the rate of contracture. Submuscular implant placement has also been shown to decrease the incidence and eliminate the need for a textured device. In reconstructive settings, radiation is a risk factor and use of ADM has been found to be somewhat protective.
Ultimately treatment involves total capsulectomy (removal of the contracted scar). Singulair, a leukotriene inhibitor, has also shown promise in early capsular development.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Related Questions for Capsular Contracture Treatments
Our Network
Affiliations
