When breast augmentation with implants is performed, the body creates a lining or capsule of thin tissue around the implant. This is a natural formation, meant to protect the rest of the body from a foreign object. In a small percentage of patients, this capsule can thicken, tighten and stiffen, causing a condition called capsular contracture. Dr. Ali Charafeddine at Eden Plastic Surgery Institute offers capsular contracture after breast implant treatment at our clinic in Miami.
Signs or Symptoms of Capsular Contracture
The exact causes of capsular contracture are not known. A woman may have two breast implants but only have capsular contracture in one of the breasts. Improved techniques for breast augmentation have decreased the risk of this condition, but it is still a possible complication in both saline and silicone gel breast implant surgeries. Signs or symptoms of capsular contracture after breast implant augmentation surgery include:
- Tightness sensation in the breast
- Pain as tightness increases
- Breasts seem higher on the chest
- Breast implant looks smaller or rounder
- The breast may look distorted – ripping or dimpling may occur
- Breast loses the natural softness
Signs and symptoms of capsular contracture may begin right after breast augmentation surgery or may not occur for months or even years.
Treatment for capsular contracture after breast implant surgery can vary depending on the degree of tightening. Mild cases can be treated with medications or other therapies, but severe cases do require surgery. Removing the entire capsule and scar tissue is the most reliable option to stop discomfort and distortion of the breast.
If you have signs or symptoms of capsular contracture after breast implant surgery, treatment is available. Contact us at Eden Plastic Surgery Institute to schedule a consultation with Dr. Charafeddine at our clinic in Miami.