What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Question

I would like to find out what are the risks and complications of explant and leaving capsules in? I have 11 year old under the muscle textured implants which were recalled, i cant afford to get them out privately and so im getting them out with the Medical card. So i cant get capsules out. Also ive the waterfall effect what happens if i leave them in having the waterfall?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The reason behind the implant recall is the risk of BIA-ALCL, a type of cancer that lives in the capsule. Removing the capsule is essential to reduce this risk of cancer. I would highly consider removing both implant and capsule when you have your procedure. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good Luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If the capsules are thickened or causing issues it is recommended that they be removed with the implants.  If they are thin and not problematic it is an option to leave them in or take them out.  The removal of your implants should correct your waterfall effect but it is important that you discuss with your surgeon how your breasts will appear after implant removal.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Calm3644, thank you for your question. It is important to completely remove the capsule, when capsule stays in the body it does not get reabsorbed and your body can show responses to the capsules. Also it would be necessary to carry out a preventive biopsy on each capsule. I link to a video about a capsular contraction that will shed some more light. To obtain more information and recommendations, it is best to consult one or more board-certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Calm3644,
Generally speaking, as long as your capsules are thin and you don't have capsular contracture, removal of implants alone should be enough. You should visit your plastic surgeon and get an examination. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Answers (7)

Answer: What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Answer: What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Answer: Capsule removal

Answer: Capsule removal

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Answers (7)

Answer: What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Answer: What are the risks of leaving in capsules from 11-year old, recalled, textured implants?

Answer: Capsule removal

Answer: Capsule removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.