Sometimes, no matter how experienced the professional is, complications might arise. Capsular contracture is a result of one such unusual complication. Capsular contracture is an immune system’s response to foreign implants in the human body. In some patients, post-breast implants, the scar tissue becomes extremely hard and starts contracting around the implants. Capsular contracture can lead to severe pain in the breast, discomfort and can distort the aesthetics of the implants and the breast.
Generally, patients prone to developing thick scars, have delicate immune systems, or have autoimmune diseases are often advised to choose less intrusive forms of cosmetic treatment. This article will educate you about Capsular contracture, its symptoms, and treatment options.
The Symptoms of Capsular Contracture
The seriousness of the Capsular contracture is rated under the grading system:
- Grade 1: The scar tissue that forms around the breast does not tamper with the shape, size, or texture. During this phase, the breast look natural as they show no symptoms
- Grade 2: During this phase, the breast might feel firm to the touch but appears normal.
- Grade 3: This phase is when it starts showing the signs of obvious symptoms. During this phase, the breasts will appear and feel unusual. However, this grade does not cause any pain.
- Grade 4: During this phase, the breasts become deformed and firm. The patient might face soreness and severe pain during this phase.
Treatment
Some surgical treatments that a patient can consider to rectify capsular contracture include:
Capsulectomy
Capsulectomy is a breast revision by Dr. Michelle Lee in which the implants and the thick scar tissue capsule that surrounds the implant are removed. They insert a new implant made from dermal matrix material, a substitute produced mostly using collagen. Collagen provides an extra layer of protection to the body against the capsule of scar tissues that might develop after the surgery.
Open Capsulotomy
During an open capsulotomy procedure, the plastic surgeon creates a small slit around the implant, to remove the skin tissue capsules. This procedure provides the implants with some more room to move. Sometimes, when necessary, the professionals also remove the implant to replace it with a new one.
Autologous Reconstruction
During Autologous reconstruction, after removing the implants, the surgeon takes tissues from another part of the body such as the buttocks or belly to reconstruct the breast. The advantage of this procedure is it terminates the chances of recurrence of capsular contracture. One must remember that Autologous reconstruction is a lengthy process and takes time to recover.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is not a condition that occurs due to implants, and the causes of this condition vary from patient to patient. This condition is not dangerous but can alter the appearance of the breast and affects a patient mentally and emotionally. People must analyze the potential side effects before signing up for cosmetic treatment.
