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Options for tight implants?

Page last modified on: September 30, 2008
Question from Twin: I feel like my implants are stuck to my rib cage; they are very tight. It's difficult at times to expand my lungs, especially when running. They are Mentor 350cc. What are my options to feel somewhat normal again?
Answer —Carolyn Chang, M.D.: One of the most common problems after breast implant reconstruction is what is known as hardening of the implants or capsular constructure. What this means is that scar tissue forms around the implant and makes that implant feel very tight and very hard. If it gets so tight, sometimes one can feel as if they can't expand their lungs, as well. I would certainly check with your plastic surgeon or someone qualified to do breast reconstruction and see if this is the case for you. And if it is, you can always have the scar tissue removed and the implants replaced, and it should be much more comfortable.

On Wednesday, April 20, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Reconstruction and Safe, Sexy Cosmetics. Carolyn C. Chang, M.D., Anna-Dee Rinehart, S.C.S., and moderator Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. answered your questions about reconstructive surgery and safe, sexy cosmetics.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Carolyn C. Chang, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, TRAM flap reconstruction, and implant reconstruction.

Anna-Dee Rinehart S.C.S. is a nurse-aesthetician, aesthetic instructor, and director of education for Austin Medical Aesthetics in Austin, Texas.

Lillie Shockney, RN., BS., M.A.S.Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. is the administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.

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