Breast implant capsules, also known as capsule contracture, are bodies of scar tissue that sometimes form around a breast implant after implantation surgery. In some cases, they can cause discomfort and even distort the shape of the breast, so they are often removed surgically.
Scientific research into whether breast implant capsules can dissolve has yielded mixed results. In general, breast implant capsules do not dissolve on their own over time. However, some studies have shown that certain treatments, such as medications and ultrasound therapy, can help to reduce the size of the capsules or even dissolve them completely.
The best course of action is to consult a medical expert and discuss what treatment option is best suited to your situation.
Is it necessary to remove implant capsules?
It is not always necessary to remove implant capsules. However, if the implant is causing health complications or interfering with the functioning of the body, it may be necessary to surgically remove the implant and its capsule.
For example, if an implant is causing capsular contracture, an aggressive form of scar tissue buildup, it may be necessary to remove both the capsule and the implant. Removing the capsule can also be helpful in other scenarios such as when the patient notices that their implant has shifted or is causing additional pain.
Removing the capsule surrounding the implant may also be necessary prior to a new implant insertion procedure. Ultimately, the decision to remove the implant capsule should be decided by a qualified plastic surgeon based on the individual needs of the patient.
Do capsules need to be removed with implants?
No, capsules do not need to be removed with implants. Capsules are created in the body around breast implants to protect the tissue and prevent inflammation. In the majority of cases, these capsules do not create any medical issues and do not have to be removed.
However, when the body does create a capsule that includes encapsulated tissue, implant removal may be necessary. This is also known as capsular contracture. This type of capsule is higher in density and may cause symptoms such as pain, discomfort or implant malposition.
If the capsule is left untreated, it can result in a hardening of the tissue around the implant, leading to discomfort and potential tearing or rupture. In cases of a severe and hard capsule, removal is required in order to ensure that the body is safe.
A surgeon can determine if removal is necessary by examining the patient and performing a biopsy of the capsule.
Is it safe to leave capsule in after explant?
It is generally not recommended to leave a capsule in after an explant procedure, as the material left behind can cause various issues over time. Depending on the type of implant, the capsule can cause inflammation, autoimmune reactions, or interfere with the healing process.
Additionally, there is always the risk of recurrence of the implant material. It is important to discuss any concerns that you may have with your surgeon before the procedure, as there are some cases where it may be necessary to leave small amounts of the capsule intact.
Ultimately, it is best to obtain a professional opinion from your physician when making decisions about explant operations.
What to do about encapsulated breast implants?
When it comes to what to do about encapsulated breast implants, it depends on the severity and symptoms you are experiencing, as well as your desired outcome. If you are experiencing mild symptoms such as asymmetry or ripple effects, non-surgical treatments such as massage therapy, physical therapy, and nutritional supplements can often be effective.
However, if you are experiencing more severe symptoms such as severe pain, mobility issues, and discomfort, then surgical removal may be necessary.
In most cases, it is best to first seek out a plastic surgeon who has experience with dealing with encapsulated breast implants. They will be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation of your condition and determine the best course of action depending on your needs.
During the evaluation, they will also determine the extent of the capsule formation and any additional tissue that may need to be removed in order to prevent recurrence.
If it is determined that surgical intervention is the only option, then the surgeon will likely opt to perform a capsulectomy and explantation. This generally involves removing the entire implant and its capsule, as well as any surrounding scar or fibrous tissue that may be present.
The goal of this procedure is typically to give the tissue time to heal itself and reduce any pain or discomfort associated with the encapsulated implants. In some cases, a new implant may also need to be inserted depending on the desired outcome.
No matter the severity of the encapsulation, it is important to discuss your options with a knowledgeable and experienced plastic surgeon. They will be able to provide you with the best advice for your particular situation in order to achieve the best possible outcome.
How do you know if you need a capsulectomy?
Capsulectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or a portion of the fibrous tissue capsule surrounding a breast implant is removed. Generally, a person will need a capsulectomy if they experience pain, swelling, or discomfort caused by scar tissue growth around the implant, and the quality of life is impacted by the symptoms.
Some of the signs that you may need a capsulectomy include persistent pain in the implant area, swelling, itching, and/or burning in the area around the implant, noticeable distortion or asymmetry in the shape of the breast, a feeling of a foreign body or “lump” that won’t go away, and a visible bulge or lump in the area around the implant.
Additionally, any redness, warmth, or drainage from the area are also cause for concern. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for a full evaluation. An ultrasound or MRI may be needed to further assess the extent of scar tissue build-up before the surgery can be recommended.
Why do capsules form around implants?
Capsules are a natural response of the human body to foreign material, including implants. When the body senses something foreign, it sends signals to cells to send out white blood cells to create inflammation and an immune response.
This inflammation causes the body to create a strong fibrous tissue shell around the implant, forming a capsule. This encapsulation process helps protect the body from the implant and helps isolate the area from further infection.
Additionally, this shell also prevents the implant from moving in the body, helping preserve the location and function of the implant. The capsule helps prevent bacteria and toxins from coming in contact with the implant and helps protect the body from the implant.
How long does it take for capsule to form around implant?
The amount of time it takes for a capsule to form around an implant can vary greatly, depending on a few factors. Generally, it takes between two and six months for a capsule to form. This capsule, which is made up of scar tissue, will ultimately surround the implant.
Initially there is a healing process that includes blood vessels and fibroblasts, which are cells that form connective tissues, working together to form the capsule. Once formed, the capsule usually continues to thicken and may even attach itself to the skin, tissues, and muscles, in order to create a more complete coverage around the implant.
Other factors, such as the type of implant, the area of placement, and the health of the patient, can affect the timeline of the capsule formation. Implants that are placed in an area where there is more movement and which require a more secure fit may take longer for a capsule to form due to the extra stress on these areas.
Additionally, patients who have already had one implant and are getting another one may have a capsule form at a faster rate.
Regardless of the specific timeline, once the capsule is formed, it will remain stable and provide protection and cushioning to both the implant and its surrounding tissues.
What does it mean when a breast implant is encapsulated?
Encapsulation of a breast implant occurs when body tissues form a capsule around the implant, normally composed of fibrous tissue and sometimes scar tissue. This is a normal reaction of the body to any foreign object and may happen to any implant.
The capsule stops the implant from moving and thus helps to prevent the implant from becoming displaced. It can also help to keep the implant stable and reduce the risk of implant rupture.
However, if the capsule is too thick or grows excessively, it can cause complications. It is important to keep an eye out for signs of this complication known as capsular contracture. Signs include hardness or tenderness around the implant, a breast shape that looks rounder, swelling or pain in the affected breast, as well as redness or warmth in the affected breast.
If you suspect that you may have contracted capsular contracture it is important to contact your doctor so that the condition can be managed.
Do capsules dissolve completely?
Capsules generally do dissolve completely, although this depends on the composition of the capsule. Capsules can be made from various materials such as gelatin, cellulose, pectin, and even hydrogels, and each of these can have a different effect on the rate and completeness of the dissolution process.
For example, gelatin capsules typically dissolve more quickly than cellulose, while hydrogels offer slower dissolution and may leave some residue. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the properties of the material used to make the capsule to determine if and how quickly it will dissolve.
Additionally, environmental factors, such as temperature and pH, can also cause variations in the dissolution rate and completeness of capsules.
Should capsule be removed during explant?
Capsule explant is the removal of a breast implant and the surrounding capsule of scar tissue that forms around the implant over time. It is typically recommended to remove the capsule during explant surgery, as it might contain silicone or calcified particles that could cause further health issues.
The process of removing the capsule from around the implant is a delicate one, as the capsule surrounds nerve tissues, glandular tissues, and breast tissue. As such, the capsule should only be removed by a qualified surgeon with experience in this type of procedure.
The decision to remove or keep the capsule should be made on a case-by-case basis, with the advice of your healthcare provider. In some instances, it might be beneficial to keep the capsule, as it might add support to the breast area.
However, when considering whether or not to remove the capsule, the potential health risks should be carefully considered, as the capsule could potentially contain toxic particles that could potentially cause health issues.
Ultimately, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of removing or keeping the capsule with your healthcare provider.
What happens if you leave capsular contracture?
If left untreated, capsular contracture can cause physical and emotional discomfort. The body’s response to the implant can cause a firmness that ranges from minor to extremely painful. Along with the physical pain, the cosmetic implications of capsular contracture can cause emotional distress because of the appearance of the implant.
Depending on the severity of the capsular contracture, the range of treatments can vary from simple massage to complete implant removal and replacement. If capsular contracture is left untreated, it can lead to further complications.
There’s potential for infection if the implant becomes exposed from the contraction and possible displacement of the implant. In addition, the surrounding breast tissue may become damaged and inflamed, leading to further discomfort.
How long does it take to heal from a capsulectomy?
The amount of time it takes to heal from a capsulectomy will vary based on the individual, the complexity of the surgery, and the extent of damage caused by the condition it was being used to treat. Generally, however, most individuals will take 6-12 weeks to completely recover depending on the circumstances.
During this time, physical therapy may be necessary to properly strengthen and restore flexibility in the affected area. It’s also important to follow the doctor’s instructions on how to care for the wound to ensure proper healing.
Activities that may agitate the healing area should be avoided during this period as well. Additionally, individuals should be aware of the potential risks associated with any surgical procedure, including infection and scarring.
With proper care and rest, most people will be able to heal from a capsulectomy with few, if any, complications.
Does capsular contracture continue to get worse?
Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. It occurs when the scar tissue forms a tight capsule around the implant, causing it to harden and become misshapen.
The condition can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can worsen over time.
The exact cause of capsular contracture is unknown, but it may be related to factors such as; chronic inflammation, subclinical infection, textured implants, bovine serum albumin, and implant displacement.
Some of these factors can be managed to reduce the risk of developing capsular contracture. For example, using a smooth implant instead of a textured one, using antibiotics before and after surgery, and ensuring the implant is correctly positioned during surgery.
However, if capsular contracture does develop, there are a few treatment options. Depending on the severity, medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids can be prescribed to reduce the inflammation and break down the capsule.
In severe cases, a capsular contracture revision may be necessary to remove the capsule and replace the implant.
In some cases, the condition may continue to worsen over time, leading to physical discomfort and loss of breast shape. In such cases, a capsular contracture revision may be the best treatment option.
It is important to talk to your doctor to discuss the best treatment options if you are experiencing any issues after breast augmentation surgery.
How fast does capsular contracture progress?
Capsular contracture is a condition that often occurs after breast augmentation surgery in which the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant, causing it to become hard and misshapen.
As the condition progresses, the implant may become even more misshapen and the breasts may feel painful and tender.
Generally speaking, the speed at which capsular contracture progresses can vary depending on individual factors as well as the type of implant used. However, in general, capsular contracture tends to progress slowly over several months or years, beginning with just a slight tightness and progressing to a more notable tightening.
It is important to note that capsular contracture is typically more aggressive in individuals who have a weakened immune system or poor wound healing.
In some cases, the progression of capsular contracture may stop or reverse when early treatment is sought. Treatment for capsular contracture may include medications, massage therapy, or surgical interventions.
Early diagnosis and intervention can help to minimize the risk of further progression and prevent the condition from getting worse.
