Capsular contracture and lipomodelling

Hi I developed capsular contracture with my temporary tissue expander and have since had it replaced with an LD flap and implant.  I’m wondering what the options are if it happens again.  I don’t know if I’d have enough fat anywhere for lipomodelling!  The operation might be quite straightforward for you if there’s an obvious source (I’m not suggesting you’re fat ) but perhaps worth asking the surgeon for more details, or getting a second opinion.  My surgeon is always very clear about likely outcomes, risks etc. and perhaps yours just thinks if you have another implant your body will react again.   Mind you, 15 years is a good long time!!

Hi  Bridie15 

I had my mastectomy and reconstruction on the 9th May this year. To cut a long story short when I had my review  in November I was told capsular was attached to my skin and that I need filling done.

There is never a time I'm not aware of my breast and its sore, feels lumpy and uncomfortable. It could take years to sort it as it classed as routine.

Since posting this has anybody told you what it is like?

Good luck and all the best for 2020 x

Hi Sunshine 19,

I am in a similar position, I remember you from when we first got diagnosed and treated and I saw you on the forum then.  I had an implant reconstruction at the same time as my mastectomy and now have capsular contraction which I suspect is attached to my skin too, it is really painful, I have been recommended fatgrafting/lipomoulding, but I can't see how that will help the pain which surely will be pulled more by the increased volume around the scars internally. I can't wear a bra, and even a support vest is painful after a couple of hours, I no longer care about the appearance of my breast and would be happy just to live with a mastectomy with no recon.  After all I understand in ancient Greek mythology that the Amazons had their right breasts removed so they could pull their bow-strings better.  So if I need a role model!

Meanwhile I hope you are getting on ok, it would be good to hear how you are doing.

Take care

Pollydog x

1. Hi, I had my surgery on 23rd October and it went really well. I opted in the end for just a simple replacement of the implant rather than the lipomodelling.  I went home same day as surgery and didn't require any pain relief (amazingly!). The only problem I experienced was a bad reaction to the dressings! I've to wear a compression bra 24/7 for at least 6 weeks.  The wound underneath my breast has healed very well and little to no bruising.  It is such a relief to be rid of the hardness and pain and I consider myself very lucky to have had the surgery given the Covid situation. 

Hi Bridie,

Thanks, great to know that it all went so well.  I think I will maybe go back to the breast clinic and see if I can discuss my options, though I don't hold out a lot of hope, from experience there it is what the surgeon you are allocated says, and no room for questions outside that really.  Not sure where to go to get help.  I wonder if anyone else can advise.  Are you even allowed a second opinion in the NHS.  I feel awful for making a fuss but the pain on that side is constant and now beginnning to stop me being able to function properly.

I am really pleased that you are doing ok though and that you have had the operation.  Hope you heal ok, compression bra for 6 weeks can't be fun.  Look after yourself and take care.

All the best

Pollydog.