Capsular contracture is a common complication of breast augmentation. To reduce the risk of capsular contracture, start by selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon who uses the latest, most sterile techniques and all FDA approved components.
The surgeon should also be able to provide specific information about their implant selection and placement. Additionally, preoperative treatments like antibiotics, gamma-irradiation, and antiseptic solutions, as well as postoperative treatments such as massaging the breasts, can help reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Finally, having the implants under the muscle can help reduce the risk of capsular contracture. It is also important to follow up with your doctor regularly to ensure that your implants are in the correct position and that you don’t have any signs of infection.
How does capsular contracture start?
Capsular contracture is a common complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. It starts when the body’s natural healing process causes an abnormal and fibrous capsule of scar tissue to form around the implant, resulting in a tightening of the capsule and squeezing of the implant.
This can lead to significant discomfort, an abnormal shape of the breast, and sometimes hardening of the implant. Risk factors for developing capsular contracture include hematoma formation, bacterial contamination, a breach in the integrity of the implant pocket, and the use of a textured implant.
Some individuals may have a greater tendency than others to form scar tissue in response to surgery.
Can you stop capsular contracture from getting worse?
Yes, it is possible to stop capsular contracture from getting worse. The first step is to identify the underlying cause of capsular contracture, which can be either a bacterial infection or tissue reaction.
If a bacterial infection is identified, an antibiotic treatment plan may be required to stop the infection from getting worse. If the underlying cause is a tissue reaction, a plastic surgeon can help to manage the condition with different treatments and modifications, such as:
• The surgical removal of the scar tissue that has formed
• Wearing a bra or regular exercise to reduce the risk of recurrence
• Use of massaging techniques to reduce tightness and improve mobility
• Use of topical silicone gel sheeting to reduce the chance of recurrence
• Administration of oral or intramuscular corticosteroid medications to reduce inflammation
• The use of natural supplements or other alternative treatments to reduce inflammation and discomfort
If left untreated, capsular contracture can deteriorate and lead to more severe cosmetic or functional problems. Therefore, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best plan of action to stop the condition from getting worse.
How can I prevent breast implant capsules?
In general, there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast implant capsules from forming. However, there are several steps you can take to help reduce your risk.
First, ensure that your implants are placed correctly, and that you and your surgeon discuss the size and shape that would be best suited to your body type and lifestyle. For example, the size and type of implant should be selected not just by your desired size and appearance, but also based on the characteristics of your body.
Talk to your surgeon about the surgical outcome you desire and the differences that certain sizes and textures can make in order to make sure your implants are placed in the appropriate location and meet your aesthetic goals.
Second, maintain regular check-ups with your surgeon after the operation. In these follow-up visits, you should gently massage your breasts several times a day to help keep them soft and natural-feeling.
It is also important to wear well-fitting bras, as improper fitting or tight bras can make the implant less able to fit in the natural shape of your breasts and put added pressure on the implants and the capsule surrounding your breasts.
Finally, taking a multi-nutrient or natural supplement, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, can help support your body’s healthy tissue and reduce the risk of capsular contraction and other long-term side effects associated with breast implants.
Speak to your doctor about any dietary supplement that would be beneficial for your specific type of implant and body type.
Do breast implants always get encapsulated?
No, breast implants don’t always get encapsulated. Encapsulation is when scar tissue forms around the implant, which can lead to a number of issues like pain, hardening, swelling, and a distorted appearance of the implant shape.
This mostly happens with older implants. Most current models have textured surfaces that might be more successful at reducing the chances of encapsulation. In general, the more textured the implant, the less likely it is to get encapsulated.
However, there is no guarantee that encapsulation won’t occur with any type of implant. Additionally, there are other factors that can increase the chances of encapsulation, such as smoking, using anti-inflammatory medications, high levels of activity, trauma to the implant, and a history of problems with other implants.
Because of this, it is important to speak to your doctor about the best implant for you and the risks of encapsulation.
What causes encapsulated breast implants?
Encapsulated breast implants occur when the body creates a fibrous tissue capsule around the breast implant. This can happen to both saline and silicone implants and is typically caused by the body’s response to a foreign object.
The body may respond to the foreign nature of an implant due to its size, shape, or chemical composition. In some cases, physical trauma to the breast or even an infection can cause the body to form a capsule around the implant.
For some women, the body may be predisposed to forming this capsule, even if there are no foreign elements present. This usually creates an encapsulated breast implant which feels painful, hard, and misshapen, and can sometimes cause other health complications such as fatigue, rashes, joint pain, and headaches.
In severe cases, the capsule can harden and shrink, leading to a condition called capsular contracture. To prevent or treat capsular contracture, it is important to have regular checkups with a plastic surgeon, who can monitor the growth of the implants and recommend body-compatible materials, if needed.
How do I know if I need a capsulectomy?
A capsulotomy is a surgical procedure that removes the scar tissue around a woman’s breast implant. It is performed in order to improve the feel and appearance of the breast by providing better adherence of the implant to the native breast.
The decision to perform a capsulotomy is typically based on a woman’s individual preferences and goals, as well as the extent of the scar tissue, her overall health, the condition of her implant, and the advice of her plastic surgeon.
If a woman is experiencing discomfort due to the scar tissue around her implant, such as tightness, rippling, or unnatural-feeling breasts, she might benefit from a capsulotomy. Additionally, if her implant is severely displaced, rocks in place, or is rippling, her plastic surgeon may recommend a capsulotomy.
If a woman is considering a capsulotomy, it’s important to consult with her doctor and discuss her goals and expectations. Together, they can determine whether she is a good candidate for the procedure and decide if it is the most appropriate option for her particular situation.
