If your breast implant placement sits abnormally on your chest, feel harder than they should, or experience soreness and discomfort that isn’t improving after the initial surgery, you may be at risk of capsular contracture.
When healing from a breast augmentation surgery, it’s normal for a capsule of scar tissue to form around an implant. However, capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around a patient’s breast implant capsule forms incorrectly, which can affect implant position and, in more severe cases, cause pain and discomfort. This blog explores the symptoms of capsular contracture and ways to improve its condition.
Table of Contents
- See the Difference: Breast Revision Before and After
- Breast Revision Patient Reviews
- Capsular Contracture Symptoms
- Capsular Contracture Correction
- What Are My Breast Implant Revision Options?
See the Difference: Breast Revision Before and After
[Breast Revision Before and After Gallery]
Breast Revision Patient Reviews
“I went from being so anxious to super excited to be flying in for my breast implant exchange/mastopexy. The process has been easy from the start!”
– R. E.
“I was a little skeptical about having my breast done again considering I had a bad experience the first time (surgery was done by a different doctor). But I’m so happy I did it and especially that I chose to do it with Dr. Hochstein. I definitely recommend him and could not be happier with my results.”
– M. R.
[See More Patient Testimonials]
Capsular Contracture Symptoms and Risk Factors
The exact causes of capsular contracture vary from patient to patient, but it’s commonly associated with genetics, overall health, improper technique, or other conditions like hematoma.
Capsular contracture symptoms are categorized in a graded system:
Grade 1
Grade one capsular contracture is asymptomatic. The capsule of scar tissue does not affect the appearance or feel of the implants, and there is no discomfort or pain.
Grade 2
Grade two capsular contracture also has minimal symptoms. You will still feel no discomfort, and the appearance of your breasts will be unchanged. However, the implants will feel a bit firm to the touch.
Grade 3
Grade three capsular contracture will result in physical changes to the breast. While pain and discomfort are still generally absent, your breast may appear misshapen and feel hard to the touch, and the nipples may also appear affected.
Grade 4
Grade four capsular contracture is the most severe stage of the condition. Your breasts will look misshapen, feel hard to the touch, and discomfort, soreness, and pain will be present. Surgical intervention is needed for cases of severe capsular contracture.
Capsular Contracture Treatment and Correction
To prevent yourself from developing capsular contracture, Dr. Hochstein uses an “internal bra,” a bioresorbable mesh scaffold that supports breast tissue during healing. The mesh disintegrates within the body, leaving a collagen-rich foundation for the implant to settle into.
Following your post-operative instructions carefully, such as attending frequent check-ups and avoiding strenuous activity, can also help prevent capsular contracture.
Dr. Hochstein will examine your condition at your consultation and consider if an internal bra is right for you.
What Are My Breast Implant Revision Options?
At Dr. Hochstein’s practice, a variety of breast revision procedures and reconstructive surgeries are available to you following your capsular contracture or misshapen breasts.
Breast revision options include:
- Permanent implant removal
- Implant removal and replacement
- Implant removal and a breast lift
- Implant pocket repair
- Tissue reinforcement
- Removal of excess scar tissue
Your surgeon will discuss which option best fits your new body goals during your consultation.
Schedule Your Breast Revision Surgery Consultation in Miami, FL Today
If you’re experiencing capsular contracture and would like to explore your breast revision or corrective surgery options, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Leonard Hochstein can give you the breast appearance and aesthetic outcome you desire. With more than 30,000 breast procedures under his belt, Dr. Hochstein uses advanced surgical techniques, focuses on the patient’s health, and applies his keen eye and expertise to give you the confidence you deserve.
To schedule your consultation with Dr. Hochstein, call (305) 931-3338 or fill out our online contact form.