28 Jan Breast Implant Encapsulation: What Is Capsulectomy?
An Unwanted Consequence Of Breast Augmentation
Breast implant surgery is quickly becoming a popular cosmetic procedure in the US. Women are finding confidence, liberation, and improved aesthetics with silicone or saline implants. The right implant size and profile can provide the perfect lift and shape to accentuate the body. While statistics show breast augmentation has fantastic satisfaction rates, the risk of complications remains. Breast implant encapsulation, also called capsular contracture, is perhaps the most frustrating negative outcome. Learning the symptoms, underlying causes, and treatment options should be a priority for all women deciding on future breast augmentations. For women with implants experiencing encapsulation, capsulectomy may be the best course of action.
Breast implant encapsulation in short
When a surgeon performs breast augmentation, the installed implant is placed among the fat and glandular tissue located in the breast. Scar tissue is expected to naturally form around the implant during the healing process. In some cases, a rapid formation of scar tissue tightens and squeezes the implant, causing unpleasant symptoms. Chronic pain, changes in shape, and hardness or firmness under the skin are common signs of encapsulation. In some cases, the implant appears unpleasant, lowering patient satisfaction.
Inflammation and bacteria trigger scar tissue formation
Scar tissue is a response to the trauma caused by breast augmentation. Inflammation happens after surgery as a means of beginning the healing process. This natural protection mechanism becomes excessive, creating a tight capsule around the implant. Bacterial accumulation or contamination during surgery increases the risk of capsular contracture. Microscopic bacterial presence can trigger an inflammatory response, causing the body to create more aggressive scar tissue.
Implant placement matters
A subglandular implant placement has a higher risk of capsular contracture. The implant can be placed in front or behind the pectoral wall. Subglandular placements go in front of the muscle, sitting with the tissue and breast glands. While many patients prefer subglandular implants, this placement is more likely to develop capsular contracture. Surgeons carefully evaluate individual anatomy to determine the most appropriate implant placement strategy.
Making things right with capsulectomy
Women experiencing continued symptoms after surgery and recovery should revisit the surgeon for more support. If capsular contracture is severe, as indicated by imaging, a capsulectomy may be recommended. This advanced surgical procedure involves removing part or all the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The surgeon may remove or replace the implant through the same incisions made in the initial surgery.
Can you prevent breast implant encapsulation?
While there is no way to guarantee avoiding breast implant encapsulation, there are recommended steps. Start by choosing an experienced surgeon with a high track record of success. The surgeon will recommend the best surgical options and implants to limit capsular contracture. Surgical techniques also limit complications that can lead to capsular contracture. Follow all postoperative care instructions to minimize infections and seek regular consultations for optimal health outcomes.
Let your surgeon be your guide
Breast implants are meant to provide confidence and improved aesthetics with minimal complications. Capsular contracture formed by scar tissue can produce long-term unpleasant symptoms. Do not hesitate to go back to the surgeon if there is evidence of breast implant encapsulation. A capsulectomy is another important procedure that addresses scarring and hardening. Patients can still enjoy implants with additional corrective steps. Let the surgeon guide the process to improve outcomes and minimize risk.