Capsular contracture under the muscle is generally not very common. The rate of capsular contracture for implants placed under the muscle versus on top of the muscle can range from 0 to 5 percent. According to a 2016 study, there was a 0 percent rate of capsular contracture in the group of breast augmentation patients who had their implants placed under the muscle, versus a 5 percent rate of capsular contracture in the group of breast augmentation patients who had their implants placed on top of the muscle.
Generally, implants placed under the muscle are less likely to experience capsular contracture than implants placed on top of the muscle. However, capsular contracture can still occur in either situation, as capsular contracture is a multifactorial condition that can depend on various factors including the patient’s body composition, general health, and lifestyle habits.
In order to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, it is recommended that breast implant patients take preventative measures such as maintaining good hydration and avoiding smoking before and after their breast augmentation procedure.
What is the problem with breast implants under the muscle?
The primary concern with breast implants placed under the muscle is a potential for long-term complications. Over time, the implant can displace, rotate, or cause changes in the underlying muscle due to the stretching of internal tissue.
For example, the implant may become encapsulated with scar tissue, leading to a feeling of artificial firmness or hardness. Moreover, implants placed under the muscle can lead to uncomfortable recurrences of muscle spasms as the implantal pressure increases.
Furthermore, the implants can move when the pectoral muscle moves, which can cause an unnatural look or feel in the area. Finally, the prolonged pressure of the implants on the underlying muscle can cause the contour of the chest wall to change permanently.
For this reason, it is important to discuss the potential risks of breast implants placed under the muscle with an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon.
What puts you at risk for capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is a common complication after breast augmentation surgery. Basically, it is a tightening of the scar tissue (or “capsule”) that forms around the breast implant. It can cause the breasts to feel hard and appear misshapen.
Although the exact cause of capsular contracture is still unknown, there are some factors that may put you at risk for developing it.
The placement of the implants can have an impact on the likelihood of capsular contracture. If the implant pockets are not created properly, or if the implants are placed too close to the chest wall or muscle, it can increase the risk of contracture.
Additionally, if the patient has an infection or inflammation around the implanted area, that can also be a risk factor.
Another factor that contributes to capsular contracture is the type of implant used. Saline implants, for example, have a higher risk than silicone implants. Smooth silicone implants are less likely to develop capsular contracture than textured implants.
Research has also suggested that smoking, an autoimmune disease, or certain medications like Accutane can make you more susceptible to capsular contracture.
Ultimately, the best way to prevent capsular contracture is to follow your medical provider’s pre- and post-operative instructions. Make sure to get regular check-ups, address issues of infection promptly, and maintain a healthy lifestyle after the procedure.
Is it better to go over or under the muscle for breast implants?
The choice of going over or under the muscle for breast implants is ultimately a decision that needs to be made with the surgeon and his or her opinion. Generally speaking, going under the muscle offers a number of advantages that make it the preferred option by many experienced surgeons.
By placing the implant under the muscle, the implant is less likely to ripple because the muscle tissue helps to support and conceal the implant. Also, going under the muscle allows for a more natural look because the implant is less likely to move with the patient’s movements.
Furthermore, in terms of breast cancer detection, going under the muscle can help reduce the chances of a mammogram misinterpretation. On the other hand, going over the muscle may be preferred for patients whose muscle tissue is more tight or who are very thin and do not have the muscle coverage to hide the implant.
In conclusion, much of the decision comes down to your individual body type and to the advice of your surgeon. Ultimately, it is important to go over all options and to weigh the pros and cons with your surgeon when deciding whether to place the implant over or under the muscle.
How long do breast implants under the muscle last?
The lifespan of breast implants under the muscle depend on a variety of factors, such as the type, quality and size of the implant, the overall health of the patient, and the skill level of the surgeon performing the procedure.
However, on average, breast implants that are placed under the muscle typically last between 10 and 20 years.
Over time, the body may develop scar tissue or contracture around the breast implant. This can cause the implants to shift and harden, leading to discomfort and potentially even pain. Additionally, with age, the implants may begin to show signs of wear and tear, including wrinkling, rippling, or general deflation.
For the safety of the patient, it is important to keep up with regular follow-up visits with their surgeon to ensure that the implants are performing as intended. During these visits, the doctor will be able to detect any signs of shifting or deflation, as well as any other complications, and make a decision as to what course of action is necessary.
Do under the muscle implants sag?
It can depend on a variety of factors. Breast implants, regardless of placement, will naturally sag over time due to gravity and the loss of skin elasticity that naturally occurs with age. However, in general, implants placed under the muscle are much less likely to sag prematurely than those placed over the muscle.
This is because the pectoral muscles provide extra support for the breast implants, which reduces the amount of gravity-induced stress on the implants. Additionally, the muscle cover can help the implant maintain its shape and position over time.
On the other hand, those placed over the muscle are not cushioned by muscle, making them more susceptible to gravity-induced sagging. Good postoperative care, proper exercise, and a healthy lifestyle can also help keep implants looking full and perky.
Ultimately, whether or not you may experience premature sagging depends on your specific anatomy and lifestyle choices.
Do implants under the muscle look smaller?
Yes, implants placed under the muscle, or submuscular placement, do look smaller compared to implants placed over the muscle, or subglandular placement. That is because the muscle layer further reduces the projection of the implant.
Also, the implant is held in a natural pocket in the body which also helps keep its size and shape more naturally. In addition, when the implant is placed under the muscle, the visible ripple and wrinkle effect is eliminated.
However, the placement of the implant under the muscle can make the recovery process more difficult and uncomfortable when compared to the placement over the muscle. Additionally, when the implant is placed under the muscle, there is an increased risk of the formation of a capsule around the implant due to the tissue being more securely fastened around the implant.
Therefore, it is important to discuss the pros and cons of the different placement options with your plastic surgeon to decide which one is best for you.
Where does capsular contracture start?
Capsular contracture is a complication that arises after breast augmentation where the capsule of scar tissue around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant. It is not entirely clear where capsular contracture starts, as its exact cause is unknown.
It is believed, however, that this complication is caused by several factors, including trauma to the breast after surgery, a suboptimal type of implant, or a preexisting medical condition such as an autoimmune disorder or diabetes.
The presence of bacteria, either from infected surgical material or from a bacterial infection, is also believed to be a risk factor for this complication. Some studies have also found that certain types of implants may have a higher risk of developing capsular contracture, as well as smoking and lack of compliance with post-operative instructions.
Whatever the cause of the condition, it is important to note that capsular contracture can occur weeks, months, or even years after the original surgery.
What does the start of capsular contracture feel like?
The start of capsular contracture can present a variety of symptoms. Generally, it is characterized by a tightening sensation or discomfort in the area surrounding the implant as well as redness and swelling.
Tenderness, firmness and warmth to the touch can also be present, and the breast can often appear distorted or change shape. Additionally, pain in the breast, armpit and upper arm may be experienced.
In some cases, the nipple may become hard, painful, or retracted.
How do I know if my breast implant is encapsulated?
The first and most reliable way to know if your breast implant is encapsulated is to consult with your healthcare provider. They can perform a physical exam and order certain tests such as an ultrasound or MRI to check whether or not your implant is encapsulated.
Additionally, signs and symptoms of a breast implant being encapsulated might include: pain or tenderness around the implant, swelling, a noticeable change in the shape of your breasts, and changes in the feel of the breasts, such as glands and/or tissue feeling harder than normal around the implant.
If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
If your healthcare provider does diagnose your implant as being encapsulated, surgery might be the only option for treating the condition. Your provider will advise you on the best course of action for your particular case.
Can capsular contracture happen right away?
No, capsular contracture typically does not happen right away. The condition is usually related to the body’s immune response to the surgical implants, and can take weeks, months, or even years to become a noticeable issue.
Generally, doctors recommend people wait a few months before making a harsh judgement about the outcome of their procedure. Capsular contracture is usually preceded by a tightness in the skin around the implant that may cause discomfort or an unnatural feeling.
If you experience any of these sensations after your procedure, make sure to contact your plastic surgeon right away.
How long does it take for capsule to form around breast implant?
The formation of a capsule around a breast implant is a normal process, and typically takes 3-4 months to become fully formed and mature. During the first several weeks, the capsule formation is quite thin, but it starts to thicken shortly after surgery.
During the next several months, the capsule continues to thicken and become stronger, forming a wall around the implant.
The capsule formation is not the same for all patients, however, due to a variety of factors such as age, lifestyle, size of implant, and the type of incision used to place the implant. Generally speaking, the more significant variables like age and lifestyle are more difficult to adjust, while the type of incision and size of implant can be modified as required.
The capsule formation process can also depend on the type of implant used, with capsules around silicone breast implants typically taking slightly longer than those around saline implants. The type and skill of the surgical team can also have an effect on the speed of recovery, with a well-trained and experienced team likely able to create a tighter capsule quicker.
Overall, it takes 3-4 months for a capsule to form around a breast implant in most cases, but as discussed above, many individual factors can influence this timeframe.
