Capsular contracture is the term used to describe scar tissue that can form around breast implants which may cause the breasts to harden, look or feel different, and may cause some discomfort from the tightening of the capsule. Capsular contracture is the most common yet unpredictable complication following breast augmentation. Although we do not know what causes a capsular contracture to form in one woman and not in another, or why one breast may harden while the other remains completely soft and natural, there are some techniques that have reduced the risk in our patients.
(Before and After)
Capsular Contracture can be associated with the following:
- Infection
- Hematoma
- Saline Implants
- Sub glandular placement of Implants
- Radiation
- Nicotine
- Diabetes
- Collagen Vascular Disease
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Lupus
- Sjogren’s Disease
*Although there are no scientific studies linking nicotine and capsular contracture however there are multiple studies that show harmful effects of smoking and nicotine itself on wound healing after surgery.
No one can predict the outcome or prevent capsular contracture however there are some things to consider that are low risk- a healthy patient, sub-muscular placement of implants, using textured and form stable implants.
How is Capsular Contracture Diagnosed?
A capsular contracture is usually diagnosed on physical examination by a plastic surgeon. You may notice that one or both of your breasts are not as soft as they once were or may actually begin to harden, your breasts may begin to look or feel different, or you may experience some discomfort from the tightening of the capsule.
Dr. Robbins will examine you to determine if indeed you have a capsular contracture. The examination of each breast is classified on a Baker scale of I to IV:
Grade I: The breast is soft and normal
Grade II: The breast is less soft than normal, and the implant can be palpated
Grade III: The breast is firm, the implant can be palpated easily, and an asymmetrical distortion of shape can be appreciated
Grade IV: The breast is hard, tender, painful, and the shape distortion is pronounced or severe
Treatment for Capsular Contracture
Capsulectomy (complete removal of the scar capsule).
For those patients without significant softening, the only other effective treatment is to completely remove the scar tissue surrounding the implant. Although this does not eliminate the possibility of future scar tissue forming around the implant, it does reduce the risk of subsequent capsular contracture.
If you think you may have capsular contracture or would like more information, please visit us at www.robbinsplasticsurgery.com or call 615-237-5552 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Robbins.
