How Is Capsular Contracture Treated?
As with any foreign object introduced into the body, it is normal for a thin layer of scar tissue to form around breast implants, creating what’s known as a “capsule.” Most of the time, this capsule remains unnoticed and virtually undetectable to the touch. In some instances, however, scar tissue can thicken and tighten around the implant, resulting in a condition called “capsular contracture.” This can often lead to an abnormal and/or unfavorable breast shape, as well as excessive firmness in the breasts.
Capsular contracture can develop after any procedure involving breast implants, including breast augmentation performed for cosmetic enhancement and breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, allowing patients to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of their breasts using saline or silicone implants. While the vast majority of augmentation patients enjoy long-term satisfaction with their results, it’s important for anyone considering this procedure to understand that capsular contracture is possible. Though uncommon, this complication can occur months or even years after the original surgery. While choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon and following post-operative care instructions closely can help minimize this risk, it cannot be eliminated entirely.
Although the possibility of capsular contracture is typically higher for older implant designs and patients who have undergone radiation therapy as part of breast cancer treatment, anyone is susceptible to the development of this unwanted condition. Thankfully, there are treatment options for those experiencing capsular contracture that we offer here at The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago.
To correct capsular contracture, our board-certified plastic surgeons – Dr. Lorri Cobbins and Dr. Brian Braithwaite – can either completely remove the tightened capsule (capsulectomy) or release the scar tissue that’s causing the capsule to shrink (capsulotomy). Using either technique, our doctors may be able to salvage the existing breast implants, though there is a chance that the implants will need to be replaced. This is generally determined by the implant’s age, design, and/or the preference of the patient.
For patients who no longer wish to have breast implants, implant removal, or “explant” surgery, is another option to consider. This procedure involves removing the implants altogether and can be performed with or without an accompanying breast lift, depending on the amount of skin elasticity and tissue laxity present. A breast lift is often recommended alongside explant surgery to address any sagging or loss of volume that may become apparent once the implant is no longer providing support, helping patients achieve a natural-looking, proportionate breast shape.
Revision breast surgery is yet another path some patients pursue, particularly when they wish to address capsular contracture while simultaneously changing the size, profile, or position of their implants. This might involve switching to a different implant type, correcting asymmetry, or repositioning implants that have shifted over time. Since revision surgery often involves more complex considerations than a first-time augmentation, it typically requires a surgeon with specialized experience in revisionary breast procedures. Dr. Cobbins and Dr. Braithwaite take the time to evaluate each patient’s unique anatomy and goals to determine whether capsulectomy, capsulotomy, implant removal, or full revision is the most appropriate course of action.
Ultimately, the aim of capsular contracture treatment is to restore a natural look and feel to the breasts, and our plastic surgeons have been able to achieve this goal with exceptional results for numerous patients. To learn more, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact our office today.