Should I get a capsulectomy or not?

With removal of breast implants (explantation) I recommend removal of the entire capsule of scar tissue which formed around the implant in a procedure called a capsulectomy. The reasoning for this is two-fold. First, the scar tissue associated with the implant will be removed yielding a much softer breast, especially if the scar tissue capsule had thickened or contracted. Second, once the implant is removed, if a capsulectomy is not performed, the two smooth scar tissue capsule surfaces will often not stick to each other and heal together properly. Fluid can build up between the surfaces in the space where the implant used to be which is called a seroma. Seromas can turn in to a chronic problem requiring drainage procedures and even more surgery. Seromas also run the risk of getting infected. For these reasons I recommend a capsulectomy when removing breast implants. 

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

One of
the most common problems is breast capsule contracture or the development of
thickening, and contracture of the capsule that exists around the breast
implants. Severe capsule contracture probably occurs in less than 15% of
augmentation patients. Every woman has a breast capsule around their implant
and this is a normal phenomenon. The capsule itself could be as thin as Saran
Wrap but may also become calcified and thickened. As it thickens and shrinks,
the patient may develop a feeling a firmness of the breasts and in its worst
situation, the breast may become painful and abnormal in appearance, achieving
a very round, hard, and uneven appearance. There may be distortion and possible
breakage and leakage of an older implant, but may also include a newer implant.
Nicotine users, such as smokers, have up to a 30x increased risk of capsular
contracture.

Saline
implants may deflate spontaneously. When the patient has significant symptoms,
complete or partial leakage of their saline implant, or concerns regarding
silicone leakage, it is recommended that the implant is removed and exchanged.
Frequently, this is performed on both sides depending upon the age of the
implant. Capsulotomy or opening of the capsule may be required or frequently
capsulectomy, which is removal of the scarred capsule, is recommended to ensure
adequate pocket dimensions.