Capsular Contracture Removal
While it is rare to experience complications after a breast augmentation, they do occur occasionally. One of the most common difficulties women encounter is capsular contracture, which is a buildup of scar tissue that can lead to disfigurement and discomfort. Fortunately, there are effective ways to remove the scar tissue to restore the appearance of the breast and eliminate any uncomfortable symptoms.
Is Capsular Contracture Removal right for you ?
Women who have undergone a breast augmentation with implants are typically good candidates for capsular contracture removal if they suffer from any one or a combination of the following symptoms:
Breasts feel hard to the touch.
Breasts appear distorted, rounded, or off-center.
The patient feels discomfort around the implant area.
The patient experiences implant rupture.
What Is Capsular Contracture?
After a breast augmentation, scar tissue will naturally form around the breast implant as part of the healing process. While some scarring is typical, there are some cases when the scar tissue tightens around an implant, causing a capsule covering that is abnormally firm, unnatural, and sometimes painful. This tightening is known as capsular contracture and is the most common reason some breast augmentations lead to noticeably round, hard breasts.
Approximately 3/4 of all incidences of capsular contracture occur within two years of surgery but can appear at any time. If you experience any changes or symptoms to your breasts after augmentation, scheduling an exam with an experienced plastic surgeon is essential.
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56
5'3"
107 lbs
Explant: Silicone Implant (right) 275cc Implant: Mentor Moderate Profile Plus Smooth Silicone Implant (right) 275cc
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24
5'2"
115 lbs
Explant: Mentor Moderate Profile Plus 350cc right Implant: Mentor Moderate Profile Plus 350cc right
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36
5'4"
107 lbs
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34
Female
5'4"
155 lbs
Explant: Bilateral Mentor Moderate Profile Plus Implants (11 years old) 500cc Implant: Bilateral Mentor Moderate Profile Plus Smooth Silicone Implants 500cc
Before surgery
Capsular contracture correction will differ significantly depending on the cause of the complication and the individual patient's goals. During the initial consultation, your surgeon will learn your implant history and perform an extensive exam to help determine the correct type of procedure that will be the safest and most effective for you. Additional surgical procedures are not always needed to correct the condition when caught early.
During surgery
Capsular contracture removals vary depending on their cause and the patient’s needs. When incisions are necessary, the existing incisions will be reopened, if possible, and closed with a layered approach that eases tension, avoiding further scarring.
After surgery
It is normal to experience some soreness and swelling for the first two weeks following your capsular contracture removal. Pain relievers and cold compresses are typically used to ease these side effects during the early phase recovery process.
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for optimal post-operative care, including an advanced scar management protocol after the initial healing period. Your surgical team is always available and will closely monitor your recovery in the weeks and months following surgery.