Frequently Asked Questions About Capsular Contracture
With so many breast augmentations performed each year, the chance of complications following breast surgery is rare but unfortunately can happen. Each patient’s body reacts differently to the surgery. Some patients develop internal scar tissue from surgery which is known as capsular contracture. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue begins to contract and harden around the implant. And although the risk of capsular contracture is quite rare, less than 3% for most according to a study from the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, women still would like certain questions answered about capsular contracture.
What Increases My Risk of Capsular Contracture?
There are certain activities that can increase the risk of having capsular contracture. For one, smoking can increase your risk of developing both capsular contraction and infection. Stop smoking before your procedure but best of all, stop smoking altogether if you can. Second, reduce your activity level after surgery to prevent injury to the breast implant. Any activities that jostle, hit, or shake the breasts can lead to the formation of capsular contracture.
Other measures such as placing the implants under the chest muscle, minimizing the handling of the implant during surgery, and using the correct size implant to match the patient can reduce the risk of capsular contracture. Perhaps most importantly you should follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely. A couple of these post-operative instructions may include wearing compression and possibly performing post-operative breast implant massages that your surgeon or his/her nurse will show you.
How Do I Know If I Have Capsular Contracture?
One of the first signs of capsular contracture may be misshapen or high-riding breasts. The breasts may feel tight and even painful as the condition increases. If you think you may have capsular contracture, make an appointment to see your surgeon in person as soon as possible.
Can I Get Another Breast Augmentation After Capsular Contracture?
While it is possible to have another breast augmentation following the removal of capsular contracture, this is a decision best made in consultation with your surgeon. There are several options available to restore the breast following treatment for capsular contracture and all should be discussed and weighed to form the best decision for you.
Breast Surgery can be scheduled at one of our Atlanta Plastic Surgery, PC locations in Atlanta, Cumming / Forsyth, Northside, and Canton/Cherokee.
