Doja Cat’s Capsular‑Contracture Nightmare: Non‑Surgical Fixes That Actually Work

If you were online the weekend of Wango Tango, you saw it: Doja Cat stepped out in an ultra‑shimmery mini dress and then hopped on X to tell fans, “don’t clock my contracted implant.” That’s not a lyric, it’s a legit complication after breast implant surgery. Multiple outlets reported the moment and her follow‑up posts clarifying that one implant was “contracted,” which is why her chest looked a little asymmetric onstage and on the carpet. Despite this she owned the stage and kept performing. This whole incident opened a conversation many people have in private but rarely see in headlines.

What is capsular contracture?

When you go for a breast implant, your body naturally forms a thin scar “capsule” around it. In capsular contracture (CC), the capsule thickens and tightens, squeezing the implant. Doctors describe it using the Baker grading system: Grade I feels normal, Grade II is slightly firm, Grade III appears distorted, and Grade IV is hard and can be painful. It’s one of the more common implant complications and a reason some patients eventually need revision surgery.

Why does it happen?

There isn’t one single cause. Research suggests that several factors contribute to this condition, including subclinical bacterial contamination (biofilm), inflammation, small hematomas/seromas, and individual scarring tendencies. Radiation after mastectomy and certain surgical variables can raise risk, and the longer an implant is in place, the more likely some complication occurs over time. In short, capsular contracture is multifactorial and partly patient‑specific, which is why prevention and treatment often require a personalized plan.

How to Spot Capsular Contracture Early

So how do you know if what Doja Cat called out might actually be happening to you? Here are the common red flags:

• Your breast feels firmer or harder than before: What once felt soft and natural might start to feel unnaturally tight.
• One breast looks like it’s “riding higher” or rounder than the other: This ball-like look is one of the classic early giveaways.
• Noticeable asymmetry or distortion creeps in: Maybe it wasn’t there before, but now the shape just looks “off.”
• Tenderness or pain shows up: It can be subtle at first, then more uncomfortable with movement or pressure.
• A gradual sense of tightness builds: Instead of settling in, the breast feels like it’s getting stiffer over weeks or months.

If you notice any of these changes or worse, sudden swelling, warmth, or redness, it’s time to check in with your surgeon. Don’t wait it out. Early assessment can make all the difference in determining whether the fix is simple or complex.

Non-Surgical Options (Best for Early/Mild Cases)

If your breast just feels a bit firmer or tighter without noticeable distortion, there are some steps you can try before considering surgery. These are evidence-informed and off-label, and they’re most useful in Baker I–II capsular contracture. But it’s always best to consult with your surgeon before starting any such medications or treatments:

• Anti‑leukotriene medications (montelukast or zafirlukast)

These anti-inflammatory meds have shown promise in softening early contracture in studies and a meta-analysis (mixed results for montelukast; stronger signal for zafirlukast). Because zafirlukast can rarely injure the liver and montelukast has an FDA boxed warning for serious mental-health side effects, they must be used, if at all, under close medical supervision.

• Therapeutic ultrasound (often called “Aspen” therapy)

External ultrasound aims to soften scar tissue and improve capsule elasticity. Small clinical series and reviews suggest it may help some early cases, availability varies, and high-quality randomized data are limited.

• Watchful waiting, supportive care, and surgeon‑directed measures

For very mild firmness without visible distortion, your surgeon may recommend observation, targeted massage protocols, or adjuncts specific to your case. Evidence for massage and supplements (like vitamin E) is limited; protocols vary by surgeon. The key is individualized care with clear goals and time frames for reassessment.

Things You Should Avoid in Case of Capsular‑Contracture

You may see “closed capsulotomy” (forcefully squeezing the breast to pop the capsule) mentioned online. The FDA specifically warns against closed capsulotomy because it increases the risk of implant rupture, especially with saline implants, and many surgeons have abandoned it due to poor durability and complications. If you’re offered this, get a second opinion.

When Surgery Is the Better Choice

If the breast is distorted, painful, or the implant is clearly displaced, surgery is usually the definitive choice. Options include open capsulotomy or capsulectomy with implant exchange and sometimes pocket change (for example, moving the implant to a submuscular plane) or adding supportive materials. Your surgeon will match the technique to your anatomy and goals.

Final Word

Doja Cat didn’t just give us a headline, in fact, she brought up a very real, treatable complication. For early capsular contracture, non-surgical options, notably a carefully supervised trial of LRAs and/or therapeutic ultrasound, may be beneficial. For more advanced cases, modern surgical revision is highly effective. If you notice any complications, consult your surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Trust Your Results to an Experienced Surgeon

Sometimes complications like the one Doja Cat experienced can be reduced or avoided by choosing a highly skilled surgeon. AtAllure Esthetic, Dr. Javad Sajan is known for his advanced techniques, attention to detail, and commitment to patient safety. If you’re considering breast augmentation or revision surgery, schedule a consultation and feel confident knowing you’re in expert hands. Call(206) 209-0988 or click here to learn more.