By Abigail Aaronson

One of the biggest and aesthetically unpleasant risks of breast augmentation is capsular contracture, also known as “breast squeeze”. Few women are aware that this is one of the major risks of undergoing augmentation surgery. This condition is generally not a severe health risk; however, it does create emotional distress due to the displeasing aesthetic appearance it creates.

Capsular contracture can occur shortly after surgery or develop over a longer period of time. The condition is characterized by the breast implant appearing “squeezed” and unnatural. Capsular contracture is the result of the tissue surrounding the area attacking the implant as if it were a foreign substance.

The breast may become overly hard and in severe cases discomfort and pain can even extend into the armpit. In the vast majority of capsular contracture cases, women feel little to no pain, but rather feel more emotional distress over the aesthetically displeasing appearance.

There is no clear indication of what triggers capsular contracture in certain women; although there are many theories and potential threats. Women who have a tendency to develop keloids, which are discolored, abnormally thick and raised scar tissue that can expand over a healing wound, may be at a greater risk than others. Some surgeons also believe that the placement and type of implant device may increase the likelihood of developing capsular contracture, although research is not conclusive.

The only way to successfully battle capsular contracture is through revision augmentation surgery. For the revision surgery, it is not uncommon for a different incision site to be used in order to get maximum results, which may mean an extra set of scars. Fortunately, revision surgery to repair capsular contracture has a fairly high success rate.

Some surgeons may suggest to adjust the placement of the implants or to switch types in order to combat potential future development. Recovery from revision surgery is generally less painful and quicker than primary breast augmentation, so it won’t be too physically taxing.

There is no cure or known way to prevent capsular contracture from initially occurring or even recurring after revision breast augmentation. Your plastic surgeon may be able to suggest a few methods such as post-surgery breast massage to help prevent potentially developing the condition. Many of these practice methods might have a positive effect, but otherwise will cause no further damage or harm to the breast implants.

Besides capsular contracture, women should be aware of all other potential dangers and risks that can occur during and after breast augmentation. Bleeding, extended swelling and bruising, skin necrosis, and permanent or temporary numbness are all risks. Another common problem is implant ruptures and leaks.

Saline ruptures can be detected within hours and the solution is absorbed harmlessly back into the body. Leaks in silicone implants, however, can take years to notice if at all. They can often only be detected by MRI scans, so it is recommended to have one performed every few years to ensure your health and safety as silicone can potentially harm surrounding tissues.

About the Author: During breast augmentation, Newport News plastic surgeon will take sound medical steps to achieve the physical image enhancements you desire, including a shapely figure as well as a positive self-image. Contact the surgeon for a consult when you visit

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