Pectoral Muscle Exercise

[imnyc]

Hi Dr. Rosenberg,

I read in this forum that you encourage your patient to do pectoral muscle exercise to help prevent capsular contracture.  I am currently going through some complications and have an open wound... the exact cause is unknown... but I have been trying to limit my upper arm movement to suppress fluid build up.

In that case, I cannot do much exercise or massage or compression as you can imagine... as I need to let the open wound (just below my crease) heal first...

In your opinion, what other things I can do to help prevent future capsular contracture or to loosen the capsules forming?  Would deep breathing exercises 'work' my pectoral muscle and thereby help reduce the risk of my capsules contracting?

You opinion is very much appreciated.

Thank you

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Your primary concern now is healing of the open wound.  If this extends into the implant cavity and becomes secondarily infected, then there is a significant risk that the implant will need to be removed to control an infection.  There is no specific remedy that will universally work to eliminate capsule contacture.  At this time your best option is rest and deal with capsule contracture later, if it develops.

[imnyc]

Thank you very much for your response Dr. Rosenberg.