What Is Capsular Contracture & How To Tell If You Have It
If you are having breast augmentation or reconstruction surgery, understanding the risks and potential complications is an important part of managing your expectations. And one of the most common complications patients may encounter when undergoing these procedures is capsular contracture.
Capsular contracture is a condition that can not only cause discomfort, but it can also affect the aesthetic outcome of the surgery. And in some cases, additional corrective procedures may even be required to help alleviate the discomfort and improve the appearance of the final results.
Understanding what capsular contracture is, why it occurs, and how to identify it can empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their post-operative health. In this post, we will help you gain a better understanding of capsular contracture, how to tell if you have it, and what to expect if your suspicion is confirmed.
What Is Capsular Contracture?
Capsular contracture is a condition that occurs when the body forms an excessive amount of scar tissue around a breast implant. This scar tissue, also known as the "capsule," is a natural part of the healing process. Under normal circumstances, the capsule is soft and pliable, holding the implant securely in place. However, in cases of capsular contracture, the scar tissue becomes unusually thick or tight, causing the implant to become compressed and this potentially leads to pain, firmness, and/or a distorted appearance.
The severity of a patient’s capsular contracture is rated according to the Baker scale, which includes the following four grades:
Grade I: The breast is soft and looks natural.Grade II: The breast is slightly firm but otherwise has a normal appearance.Grade III: The breast is firm and looks slightly abnormal.Grade IV: The breast is hard, painful, and much more visibly distorted.
Why Does Capsular Contracture Occur?
The exact cause of capsular contracture isn’t fully understood, but it is believed that several factors may contribute to its development. These factors include:
Infection: Even a minor infection around the implant after surgery can trigger excessive scar tissue to form.Hematoma or Seroma: Fluid buildup near the implant can increase the risk of abnormal scarring.Implant Placement: Implants placed above the pectoral muscle (subglandular placement) tend to be at a higher risk compared to those placed beneath the muscle (submuscular placement).Rupture or Leakage: A compromised implant can irritate the surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation and excessive scar tissue formation.Trauma: Physical impact or strain on the breast area during the post-surgical recovery phase can cause increased scar tissue buildup.Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may be more prone to excessive scarring due to their genetic makeup.
How to Tell If You Have Capsular Contracture
Identifying capsular contracture early on can help you address the issue before it worsens. Here are some of the most common capsular contracture signs and symptoms:
- Changes in Breast Texture: If your breast starts to feel unusually firm or hard, then this could indicate the development of capsular contracture.
- Pain or Discomfort: Tenderness or pain in the affected breast, particularly when touched or during physical activities, is a common indicator that capsular contracture is present.
- Visible Distortion: If your breast appears misshapen or overly round, with the implant sitting higher than intended, then you may be developing capsular contracture.
- Restricted Movement: In severe cases, capsular contracture can limit the natural movement of the breast.
- Asymmetrical Breasts: If there is a noticeable difference in size or shape between the two breasts, then you may be in the mid-stages of capsular contracture. The asymmetry will usually worsen as the condition progresses.
If you are experiencing one or more of the signs and symptoms and suspect that you have capsular contracture, then it’s essential to consult your surgeon for an evaluation.
A capsular contracture diagnosis can often be confirmed with a physical examination, during which your doctor will assess the firmness, position, and appearance of the breast by touch and visual inspection. In many cases, ultrasound, MRI, or mammography may be used to evaluate the condition of the implant and the state of the surrounding tissue.
What are the best bras to wear if you have a Capsular Contracture?
After a revision surgery we recommend the Bianca.
The Bianca Front Closure Sports Bra from AnaOno is an excellent choice for individuals managing capsular contracture or recovering from revision surgeries. Its compressive design provides essential support, minimizing swelling and offering gentle pressure to reduce discomfort while stabilizing the chest area. The front-closure feature ensures easy dressing and undressing, especially for those with limited mobility post-surgery, eliminating the strain of reaching behind to fasten a bra. These thoughtful design elements prioritize comfort and convenience during recovery.
Crafted from ultra-soft, breathable materials, the Bianca bra is gentle on sensitive, healing skin, reducing the risk of irritation or chafing. Its adjustable front closures accommodate changes in the body during recovery, offering a customizable fit that supports healing. Specifically designed for post-surgical needs, the Bianca bra combines functionality and comfort, making it an ideal solution for managing the challenges of capsular contracture and revision surgeries.
After an explant surgery, we recommend the Leslie.
The Leslie Leisure Bra from AnaOno is a top choice for individuals managing capsular contracture or recovering from breast surgeries like an explant procedure. Designed with comfort and recovery in mind, the Leslie bra features a step-in style, eliminating the need for difficult overhead movements or back closures, making dressing effortless during recovery. Its ultra-soft modal fabric is gentle on sensitive, healing skin, providing a soothing feel while minimizing irritation. This makes it an ideal loungewear option, perfect for long days of rest and healing.
What sets the Leslie apart are its thoughtful details, like mesh panels on the front and sides, which improve air ventilation and keep the wearer cool and comfortable throughout the day. The lightweight design and breathable construction reduce discomfort, especially for those recovering from explant surgeries, where sensitivity and swelling can be a concern. Whether lounging at home or easing back into daily routines, the Leslie bra offers unmatched softness, ease of wear, and functionality for post-surgical needs.
How is Capsular Contracture Treated?
The treatment for capsular contracture depends on its severity grade and the specific needs of the patient, and both non-surgical and surgical options are available. While the choice of treatment will ultimately be decided by you and your surgeon, the most common treatment approaches typically include:
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Capsular Contracture
- Massage and Exercises: Gentle massage or certain exercises that are specially designed to keep the tissue supple may help alleviate the discomfort in the early stages of capsular contracture.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or leukotriene inhibitors (like Singulair) may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and reduce scar tissue formation.
Surgical Treatments for Capsular Contracture
- Capsulectomy: A capsulectomy involves removing the existing breast implant and the surrounding tissue capsule. A new implant, one that is encased in a dermal matrix material sheet primarily composed of collagen, is then inserted. This material serves as an additional protective layer, prompting the formation of a new scar tissue capsule by your body.
- Capsulotomy: A capsulotomy involves the surgeon making small incisions in the scar tissue to relieve tension and make it more flexible. In some cases, portions of the capsule may be excised to facilitate the capsule opening. This provides the implant with greater freedom of movement. In severe situations, the surgeon might simply opt to replace the current implant with a new one.
- Flap Reconstruction Surgery: In flap reconstruction surgery, the surgeon removes the breast implant and then reconstructs the breast using a flap of tissue transplanted from another part of your body, such as the abdomen or buttocks. An advantage of this approach is that tissue capsules do not form around flaps, although because this is a more intricate procedure, it usually has a longer recovery period compared to the other options.
- Implant Removal: In the most severe cases, removing the implant altogether is usually the best option.
Preventing Capsular Contracture
While it’s not always possible to prevent capsular contracture, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. For one, make sure that your surgeon has plenty of experience. A skilled surgeon can minimize the likelihood of complications through precise techniques and proper implant placement.
If you are genetically predisposed to capsular contracture, then make sure you discuss your implant type and placement with your surgeon. Textured implants and submuscular placement may lower your risk of developing capsular contracture. Before and after surgery, you should keep the surgical area clean to reduce the chance of infection.
Post surgery, make sure you adhere to your doctor’s recovery plan. Avoiding strenuous activity is essential and wearing compression bras will help increase your comfort and promote optimal healing. Schedule and keep your routine follow-ups with your surgeon, so they can detect and address any potential issues early on and before they have a chance to worsen.
Final Thoughts on Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture can be a frustrating and painful condition, but by having a better understanding of it, you can take control of your health. When recovering after your procedure, stay informed and maintain open communication with your surgeon, as this will help ensure a smoother recovery and greater long-term satisfaction with your surgical outcome.
