Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after a breast augmentation surgery. This is when the scar tissue around the implant tightens and causes a hardening of the area. This complication can be uncomfortable and can distort the look of your breasts.
Including:
-Genetics: Your genetics can make you more likely to develop this complication.
-Infection: After the surgery, if any infection develops in the area, it can increase the risk of capsular contracture.
-Implant Placement: How an implant is placed and the incision sites can also increase the risk of capsular contracture.
-Smoking: Smoking and nicotine intake can increase inflammation and can result in capsular contracture.
-Immune System: Your immune system may have an effect on the development of capsular contracture.
-Previous Capsular Contracture: If you have had any previous instances of capsular contracture, you are more likely to get it again.
All of these factors can increase your risk of capsular contracture. However, you can decrease your risks by seeing your doctor for frequent checkups and staying on top of your health, following a healthy lifestyle and not smoking.
Additionally, wearing a supportive bra, especially during the early weeks after your surgery, may also help in reducing your risk.
Can you stop capsular contracture from getting worse?
Yes, it is possible to stop capsular contracture from getting worse, but it can be difficult. The best way to try and prevent capsular contracture from occurring in the first place is to take steps to ensure that the area is not exposed to any bacteria or other contaminants prior to and during surgery.
This means taking steps such as making sure the operating room is clean and sanitary and that all tools used during the procedure are sterile.
Once the surgery is completed, there are also several measures that can be taken to help reduce the risk of capsular contracture. This includes wearing a supportive and well-fitted bra, avoiding smoking and avoiding any additional breast procedures in the area which may increase the risk of infection.
Additionally, a healthy lifestyle that consists of regular exercise, proper nutrition, and a balanced diet can help to reduce the risk of the formation of a new or enlarged capsular contracture.
Lastly, it may be possible to stop capsular contracture from getting worse after it has already formed. In some cases, aggressive physical manipulations of the breasts, such as massage and compressive bandaging, may help to break up the capsule and reduce its size.
Additionally, some doctors may recommend steroid injections such as cortisone or triamcinolone, as well as topical antibiotic creams and intralesional injections to help reduce inflammation and prevent further growth or enlargement of the capsule.
However, it is important to speak to a doctor to determine the best course of action for your individual case.
When is capsular contracture most likely to occur?
Capsular contracture is a complication of breast augmentation surgery that occurs when the scar tissue or capsule around the implant contracts, making the implant appear hard and feel uncomfortable. It is most likely to occur within the first year after the procedure, although it can occur years later.
The most common risk factors for capsular contracture include infection, smoking, and trauma to the breast. Other potential risk factors include hormonal fluctuations, changes in the immune system, and textured implants.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms such as discoloration, pain, swelling, or changes in the shape of your implants.
How common is capsular contracture in breast implants?
Capsular contracture is a condition that can occur after breast implants are placed. It occurs when the body forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, which can squeeze the implant and create discomfort or alter the look and feel of the implant.
The exact frequency of capsular contracture is not known, but estimates range from 10-45% of women who undergo breast implant surgery. Several factors can increase the risk of developing capsular contracture, such as having a previous history of the problem, inadequate pocket creation during implant surgery, smoking, and being of a younger age at the time of surgery.
Most cases of capsular contracture can be treated, usually by removing the implant and the capsule and either replacing it or keeping the pocket empty. In some cases, antibiotics and regular massage of the area might lessen the likelihood of the condition returning.
Women who are considering breast implants should talk to their doctors about the risks of capsular contracture and the best way to manage the condition if it does occur.
How quickly does capsular contracture develop?
Capsular contracture is a complication that occurs after breast augmentation surgery. It is the abnormal tightening or hardening of the tissues that form around the implant, which can cause the breast to become firm or even misshapen.
The timeline for when it might develop is different for everyone, as it can occur immediately after the surgery, or can manifest several years later.
Studies have suggested that approximately 10-15% of women may experience capsular contracture following surgery, with about 3. 2% of those women requiring reoperation within five years of the procedure.
The most significant risk factor for developing capsular contracture is believed to be a bacterial biofilm, an accumulation of bacteria which builds up around the implant over time. Other factors such as smoking, and the type of implant used may also increase the risk.
Most notably, capsular contracture is often more likely to develop shortly after surgery; up to 20% of women may experience some degree of it within the first year. It is important to keep in mind that capsular contracture may be a sign of a serious problem and should not be taken lightly.
If the breast feels hard or misshapen, it is important to contact the operating surgeon straight away.
How do you know if your breast implant is encapsulated?
Encapsulation of your breast implant takes place when the body begins to form a capsule around the implant. This capsule is made up of scar tissue and is usually painless and usually doesn’t disrupt the implant itself.
However, this scar tissue capsule can sometimes make your breast feel firm, hard, and potentially painful.
Other signs that your breast implant may have become encapsulated include changes in the shape or feel of the breast, unusual swelling or discomfort, redness of the skin or a persistent rash, and discharge from the implant.
You may also notice a lack of movement in the breast, or discomfort with certain positions or activities.
Your doctor can diagnose encapsulation with clinical tests, physical exams, and implant tests. These include a mammogram or ultrasound exam of the breast, a needle biopsy to determine if there is tissue inflammation, and a pressure test to measure the firmness of the implant.
If your doctor finds any signs of implant encapsulation, they may recommend a surgical procedure to remove the capsule and replace the implant with a newer, more durable model.