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Capsular Contracture Treatment in 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.

  • Review from L.G.
  • Source: Google
  • Jun 12, 2019
Dr. Lapuerta and his staff gave me the best experience during my procedure, and exceeded my expectations. Dr. Lapuerta took his time during the consultation and reviewed many important points regarding my health and desired look. He made an amazing decision during the procedure to maintain perfect symmetry, this shows his great experience and interest in patient successful outcome, and I'm so thankful for that. His wife is his anesthesiologist, she really educated me on all the steps involved and ensured me I was in good hands. Brandi the office manager maintained a very professional character during the process and helped me obtain important paperwork. Sonia always greeted me with a smile and was attentive and delegated all my questions. The nurse Jana took the time to work on my paperwork and advocated for me as her patient. Shelby was also amazing, I love how she explained the medication as she applied to my incisions and kept me informed of everything that was being done to me. I truly trusted them with my life and I am so happy with my results and most importantly my health. I recommend Dr. Lapuerata to everyone who needs a plastic surgeon. 5 plus stars!

What is Capsular Contracture?

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.

When does Capsular Contracture Happen?

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. 

  • – Grade I: The breast looks normal and still feels soft
  • – Grade II: The breast feels a little firm but still looks normal
  • – Grade III: The breast is firm and looks distorted
  • – Grave IV: The breast is hard and painful and very distorted

Can You Fix Capsular Contracture?

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.

Capsular Contracture Treatment Options

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.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Leo Lapuerta

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.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

  • Recovery Time
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • Average Procedure Time
  • 1-2 Hours
  • Post-op Follow-up
  • 1 Week
  • Procedure Recovery Location
  • Outpatient

Breast Implant Revision FAQs

How Much Does Breast Implant Revision Cost?
Breast revision surgery refers to a wide range of different procedures. The cost of some breast revision surgeries can be very different than the breast implant replacement cost. This wide range of outcomes means that the cost for a breast revision procedure will vary greatly. On average, the range is between $5,000-$20,000, with an average of $13,000, but the final cost will depend on numerous factors. These factors include: 1) If the breast implants are being removed or replaced 2) If breast implant replacement is occurring with a silicone or saline breast implant 3) If any additional surgical technique will be needed 4) If the implants were covered by a manufacturer warranty 5) If an internal bra is recommended or required
How Soon After Breast Augmentation Can I Get a Revision?
Though this will depend on your own individual circumstances, most professionals recommend that breast augmentation patients wait at least six months before undergoing a revisional procedure. If you are concerned by this, and hope to have this procedure sooner, we recommend you speak to Dr. Lapuerta in person. He will be able to assess your recovery progress and determine what is viable.
Leo Lapuerta Plastic Surgery