Capsular contracture is usually diagnosed on physical examination by a plastic surgeon. You may notice that one or both of your breasts are not as soft as they once were or may actually begin to harden, your breasts may begin to look or feel different, or you may experience some discomfort from the tightening of the capsule. The appearance of any of these signs should alert you to the need to have your breasts examined by a plastic surgeon at your earliest convenience.