Does anyone have experience with unilateral capsulectomy with implant exchange? (Photo)

Question

I have capsular contracture in my right breast, and my surgeon recommended unilateral capsulectomy, w/ implant replacement on the right side. I’m nervous about my breasts looking uneven. Has anyone else been through this? I’m relatively satisfied with my left side, but I wish I had a bit more cleavage and I wish my breasts flattened out less when I lie down. Coming into this, I was expecting both breasts to be revised, and I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around fixing just one

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear interestedinimplants,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, it is possible to remove implant and capsule on one side and replace it with another implant. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good afternoon!

I hear you- I only do one side when the other side is perfect. Yours apparently isn't and can probably be improved, and this is the perfect time to do so!

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Capsular contracture frequently affects one side. As such, that side can be treated, leaving the other side untouched to avoid extra risk.

Mesh may be considered to reduce risk of recurrent capsule. If implants are intact, not been in place too long, no biofilm, etc, they may be kept.

If there are concerns with both sides, then further discussion about bilateral revision should take place as well.

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear Virginian,
   Thanks for posting your picture and sorry for your problems. It would have been helpful to see your front view picture as well .
   I have been in practice for over 32 years and  have performed many breasts augmentation revision surgery. Capsulectomy and implant replacement is required when 'Biofilm' occurs, which presents as severe breast hardening due to thick and inflamed capsule. This occurs when bacteria seeds the implant and capsule and it is quite common to be one sided.
   If the breast is not very hard and the capsule is not thick with inflammation, only capsulotomy (scar release) is required and the implant does not need to be replaced.
  If you have concerns about your surgeon recommendation, consult with other experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Most importantly, check the before and after pictures of redo breasts augmentation in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive with nice cleavage, perky, symmetrical and natural looking.
       Best of luck,
                   Dr Widder

Does anyone have experience with unilateral capsulectomy with implant exchange? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Capsulectomy with implant replacement

Answer: Capsulectomy with implant replacement

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Does anyone have experience with unilateral capsulectomy with implant exchange? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Capsulectomy with implant replacement

Answer: Capsulectomy with implant replacement

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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