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.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Although these terms can be used interchangeably, the "pocket" is the space dissected and where the breast implant is placed.  The "capsule", on the other hand, is the scar tissue that subsequently forms around the breast implant.  Hope this helps.

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.

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

Answers (7)

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

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

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

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

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

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

Answer: Capsule and pocket definitions

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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.