Leo Lapuerta, MD Plastic Surgery - Houston, TX
A breast augmentation procedure is generally quite safe, but like any surgical procedure, it comes with a few risks. You may have heard about capsular contracture and want to understand what it is and how to address it following a breast augmentation.
Dr. Lapuerta and the Look Younger team are here to help answer questions and address any concerns. Contact us today to schedule a Consultation.
Capsular contracture is a condition caused when a hard “capsule” forms around new breast implants, made of scar tissue. While scar tissue is normal and even helpful to hold the implant in place, in this case, it becomes harder than normal and can create discomfort.
Common capsular contracture symptoms include a change in breast shape, causing the breast to look more like a ball. The capsule can make the breasts appear uneven, with each breast having different shapes or sizes. The implant may feel hard to the touch, and you may notice tightness, discomfort, or pain in the chest.
Breast implant contracture can occur following breast augmentation or breast reconstruction, alike.
Capsular contracture is more likely to happen in a patient in the first two years following the breast augmentation procedure. Often the cause is a reaction to the implants, but sometimes it can occur when the implant has ruptured.
In many cases, the capsular contracture may not even be noticeable or cause any discomfort. In other situations, signs of capsular contracture may be painful. There are four grades of the condition, and a doctor can diagnose where on this gradation scale the capsular contracture case may fall.
As serious as capsular contracture sounds, it can be repaired with a surgical procedure. Doctors can perform a breast revision surgery to remove the old implant and create a new pocket, addressing the scar tissue and hard capsule.
The exact approach and plan for breast revision surgery will depend on a patient’s unique needs and their doctor’s recommendation. Often, medication is included in capsular contracture treatment to prevent future issues such as breast implant rejection.
Your doctor will discuss the various treatment options available for your capsular contracture. The implant may be removed with the scar tissue left in place or part of the scar tissue may also be removed. In some patients, the doctor may recommend removing all the scar tissue. If the breast tissue moved from its original location, the doctor may need to repair the pocket.
Some patients will decide they don’t want to replace the implants, which will mean removal of both sides. If the skin doesn’t return to its normal position from before the augmentation, a breast lift may become necessary. For others, they may decide to continue with the breast implants and switch from silicone implants to saline, which have a lower incidence rate of capsular contracture.
If you suspect that you have capsular contracture, you need an experienced plastic surgeon who can advise you of your options. Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a triple-board-certified surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in the industry. He knows the latest treatments and will provide guidance on what is best for each patient’s unique situation. Once a treatment plan is determined, you will receive a quote for the cost to help you prepare for your treatment.
Call us at 713-340-0990 to schedule a Consultation about breast revision surgery for your capsular contracture. Let Dr. Lapuerta help you regain confidence in your looks and remove any discomfort you’re experiencing.