What is the difference between the capsule and the pocket in relation to breast implants, or are they the same thing?

Question

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Great question. The pocket is the physical space where the implant is located. It can be above or below the muscle. The capsule refers to a layer of scar tissue that surrounds the pocket. Essentially, the capsule is the inner wall of the pocket. Capsular contracture refers a situation where the capsule becomes abnormally thickened.

Ramin Behmand, MD, FACS · Answer

This is an excellent question and comes up often. The breast pocket and capsule are essentially the same space.  You first make a pocket during surgery into which you place the implant, then the body forms a thin capsule (normal scar tissue) around the implant as the pocket heals from the surgery. all breast implants that heal normally will have a thin capsule around them. Dr.B.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

The capsule is the scar tissue around the implant.  The pocket is the area the implant sits.  Pocket repairs are difficult, but necessary, in most revision breast surgeries.  Implant size and shape are also critical to getting a beautiful long lasting result.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

The pocket is the space dissected for the  implant.  The capsule forms on the inside of the pocket (like a lining) as you heal.  If this capsule shrinks, you develop a contracture and distortion and hardness of your breasts.  So the pocket is not the same thing as the capsule.

Jonathan Kaplan, MD, MPH · Answer

The pocket is the space that the surgeon creates under the muscle for the implant to be placed in. The capsule is the scar tissue that the body naturally forms around the implant while it's healing.

What is the difference between the capsule and the pocket in relation to breast implants, or are they the same thing?

Answers (7)

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

Answer: Capsule vs pocket

Answer: Capsule vs pocket

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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

What is the difference between the capsule and the pocket in relation to breast implants, or are they the same thing?

Answers (7)

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

Answer: Capsule vs pocket

Answer: Capsule vs pocket

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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