Before and after left breast reconstruction revision in a 47-year-old breast cancer survivor. She had completed radiation therapy and chemotherapy after a left mastectomy. Her left implant previously placed for reconstruction was contracted and hard from capsular contracture.
While this complication of breast implants is usually due to infection, contracture can also occur secondary to intense inflammation during radiation. During radiation to her left breast and chest wall, she suffered severe skin burns and blisters that took months to heal. She waited a full two years before considering a breast revision.
Her revision involved left total capsulectomy to remove all contracted scar tissue and to open the former mastectomy space. A smooth round silicone gel breast implant was placed on top of the muscle, in the prepectoral position.
Follow up photos are shown one month after surgery. She has been given permission to start exercising again and lifting more than five pounds. She can resume swimming when all scabs are gone.
*All photos are actual patient photographs and are for illustrative purposes only. Individual results may vary.
