What is Breast Implant Contracture?
Breast implant contracture is a condition that occurs when the scar tissue surrounding a breast implant becomes thick and hard, forming a capsule. This capsule can compress the implant, causing pain, discomfort, and a distorted appearance. The severity of contracture can range from mild to severe, and the cause is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be related to the body’s natural inflammatory response to the implant.
Symptoms of Breast Implant Contracture
The most common symptoms of breast implant contracture are:
- Pain: The breast may feel tender, sore, or aching.
- Discomfort: The breast may feel tight or restricted.
- Distorted appearance: The breast may appear misshapen, lumpy, or asymmetrical.
- Hardness: The breast may feel hard or firm to the touch.
- Limited range of motion: The breast may feel stiff and difficult to move.
Causes of Breast Implant Contracture
The exact cause of breast implant contracture is unknown, but it is thought to be a complex interplay of factors, including:
- The type of implant: Textured implants may be more prone to contracture than smooth implants.
- The placement of the implant: Implants placed under the muscle may be more prone to contracture than implants placed under the breast tissue.
- Individual factors: Certain factors, such as smoking, obesity, and autoimmune disorders, may increase the risk of contracture.
- Previous surgeries: Previous breast surgeries may increase the risk of contracture.
- Infection: Infection around the implant can increase the risk of contracture.
Diagnosis of Breast Implant Contracture
A doctor can diagnose breast implant contracture based on a physical exam and a review of your medical history. If the doctor suspects contracture, they may order imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for Breast Implant Contracture
Treatment for breast implant contracture depends on the severity of the condition. For mild contracture, conservative treatment, such as massage, may be effective. For more severe contracture, surgery may be necessary to remove the implant and scar tissue.
Conservative Treatment
- Massage: Gentle massage of the breast tissue can help to soften the capsule and improve blood flow.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce pain and swelling.
- Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the breast area can help to relax the muscles and reduce pain.
Surgical Treatment
- Capsularctomy: This procedure involves surgically removing the capsule surrounding the implant.
- Implant replacement: If the capsule is removed, the implant may be replaced with a new implant.
- Implant removal: In some cases, the implant may be removed altogether.
Choosing a Plastic Surgeon for Breast Implant Contracture Repair
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is essential for successful breast implant contracture repair. Look for a surgeon who:
- Is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Has extensive experience in breast implant surgery
- Has a good reputation and positive patient reviews
- Is comfortable answering your questions and addressing your concerns
Top 10 Doctors for Breast Implant Contracture Repair in New York City 2025
It can be overwhelming to choose a surgeon when you are faced with a medical issue. Here are 10 of the best doctors for breast implant contracture repair in New York City.
1. Dr. Stephanie Bernik, MD
Dr. Bernik is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. She has extensive experience in breast implant contracture repair and has a proven track record of success. Dr. Bernik is also a highly respected educator and researcher in the field of plastic surgery.
2. Dr. Lauren Cassell, MD
Dr. Cassell is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. She has a particular interest in breast implant revision surgery, including the repair of breast implant contracture. Dr. Cassell is known for her meticulous surgical technique and her compassionate approach to patient care.
3. Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD
Dr. Ascherman is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. He is highly regarded for his expertise in breast implant revision surgery, including the repair of breast implant contracture. Dr. Ascherman is known for his innovative techniques and his commitment to providing patients with the best possible results.
4. Dr. Clare Hochreiter, MD
Dr. Hochreiter is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. She is known for her expertise in breast implant contracture repair and her compassionate approach to patient care. Dr. Hochreiter is also a strong advocate for patient education and empowerment.
5. Dr. Jonathan Villena-Vargas, MD
Dr. Villena-Vargas is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. He has extensive experience in breast implant contracture repair and is known for his meticulous surgical technique. Dr. Villena-Vargas is also a strong advocate for patient safety and satisfaction.
6. Dr. Emile Bacha, MD
Dr. Bacha is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. He has a particular interest in breast implant revision surgery, including the repair of breast implant contracture. Dr. Bacha is known for his innovative techniques and his commitment to providing patients with natural-looking results.
7. Dr. David Otterburn, MD
Dr. Otterburn is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. He has extensive experience in breast implant contracture repair and is known for his meticulous surgical technique and his compassionate approach to patient care.
8. Dr. Amber Guth, MD
Dr. Guth is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. She has a particular interest in breast implant revision surgery, including the repair of breast implant contracture. Dr. Guth is known for her artistic eye and her commitment to providing patients with natural-looking and symmetrical results.
9. Dr. Virgilio Sacchini, MD
Dr. Sacchini is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. He has extensive experience in breast implant contracture repair and is known for his meticulous surgical technique. Dr. Sacchini is also a highly respected educator and researcher in the field of plastic surgery.
10. Dr. Alexandra Heerdt, MD
Dr. Heerdt is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. She has a particular interest in breast implant revision surgery, including the repair of breast implant contracture. Dr. Heerdt is known for her compassionate approach to patient care and her commitment to providing patients with the best possible results.
Summary
Breast implant contracture is a common complication after breast augmentation surgery. It is important to seek the care of a qualified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant contracture repair. The right surgeon can help you achieve the best possible outcome and restore the appearance and feel of your breasts.
It is important to remember that this is not an exhaustive list of all great plastic surgeons in NYC. Many other surgeons are highly skilled and experienced in breast implant contracture repair. Ultimately, the best surgeon for you is the one you feel most comfortable with and who has the experience and expertise to meet your individual needs.
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