Implant removal - total capsule or partial removal? What are the cons of total capsule removal?

Question

Want implant removal due to unsatisfactory unnatural results. Also I am experiencing BII symptoms but my original surgeon and two other surgeons in UK don’t seem to want to acknowledge BII. My physical and mental health is on the floor after surgery and I was in peak physical fitness very active before surgery. Two said can test capsule but why leave it in ? I only want one surgery. What are the cons of total capsule removal?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @BAquestions23, thank you for your question. Taking into account that you are experiencing BII symptoms there is no cons, because the capsules can cause future inflammatory processes if it's they are left in the body. From hundreds of breast implant removal I have performed I can attest that the capsules do not get reabsorbe by the body. To shed more light on this, I have included a video. . Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. I'm really sorry to hear that you’re experiencing symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII) and that it’s affecting your physical and mental health. Your desire to have implant removal with total capsule removal (capsulectomy) is completely understandable, especially if you're seeking a one-surgery solution to address the health issues you're experiencing. It's important that you feel heard, and that your concerns are taken seriously by the medical professionals you work with. Please see the attached video that discusses your question. While BII is not universally recognized by all surgeons or healthcare providers, many women report symptoms that they believe are linked to their breast implants. These symptoms can range from chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, skin rashes, and other autoimmune-like symptoms, to more severe systemic responses. There is still a lack of consensus on the exact cause of BII, but many believe it may be related to the body’s response to the foreign materials of the implants or the capsule that forms around them.
Given that you were in peak physical condition before the surgery and now feel like your physical and mental health has declined, it's very valid for you to be considering implant removal as a step toward improving your overall health. If you've ruled out other medical causes for your symptoms and feel strongly that the implants are contributing to your health issues, total capsule removal may be your best option.Given your health concerns and desire to improve your physical and mental well-being, total capsule removal seems like the most appropriate choice for you. It addresses both the physical removal of the implant and the potential inflammatory effects of the capsule, which might be contributing to your autoimmune symptoms. While the surgery is more complex than a simple explant, it is your best option if you want to ensure a complete and lasting resolution to your concerns.
Make sure you consult with a surgeon who is experienced in these procedures and willing to address your concerns fully, as they will guide you through the process and help you make the best decision for your health and goals.

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

Mario Arturo Moran Romero, MD · Answer

Dear BAquestions23. Current data don't show an increased benefit of symptom improvement when dealing with Breast Implant Illness. However, a capsulectomy can harbor increased surgical time bleeding risk, especially in submuscular implants, thoracic injury, or lung injury.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear BAquestions23,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Implant removal - total capsule or partial removal? What are the cons of total capsule removal?

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Implant removal - total capsule or partial removal? What are the cons of total capsule removal?

Answers (9)

Answer: Cons of total capsule removal

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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