Should the capsule be removed with the implants?

If someone wants to permanently remove their saline breast implants, does the capsule need to be removed as well? If the capsule stays in, what happens to it? Will it move to other parts of the body or does it dissolve eventually? I've heard conflicting information about it. I heard from some that it is risky to remove it and it will dissolve over time. On the other hand, I read other stories about women who get sicker from leaving it in. Which is correct, to remove the capsule or leave it in after removing the implant permanently?

3 answers to “Should the capsule be removed with...”

A: Treatment of the capsule in explantation

Lavinia Chong, MD

The considerations for removing implants are to streamline a woman's life (ie eliminate the maintenance concerns) and optimize the appearance of  her breasts.  Assuming that your nipples are at or above the inframammary fold (where the breast meets the chest wall) and your skin brassiere is elastic,... more

A: Capsule and removal of breast implants

Farbod Esmailian, MD

In general the implant is removed and a drain is placed.  Now if you have silicone implants are there is some possibility of rupture, I like to remove everything en bloc.  Remove the capsule and the implant all at once. If the capsule is very thick, I also like to remove the capsule and place drains... more

A: Firm capsules with silicone breast implants should typically be removed

Michael C. Edwards, MD

For a patient with a saline implant and a simple explant (removal), the capsule can be left to collapse. A drain is typically left in to encourage the closure of the capsule. In a patient who has a firm or thickened capsule with a silicone implant, it is best to remove the capsule. There really shouldn't be... more

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