Capsule was stuck & only part of it removed - does this happen sometimes?

Hello @Cheerful267693, thank you for your question. It must be taken into account that it also depends on the surgical technique of the surgeon. If a capsule is stuck very badly, then a doctor will evaluate the situation accordingly, especially if the patient's life is at risk. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Explant surgery mandates removal of all capsule—that is the entire operation in itself, plus the removal of not only the capsule, but all inflamed tissue, along with the implant. If any of the capsule is left behind, that is considered incomplete surgery. We can tell this from not only the many pathology reports that show silica within the capsules, but also the many patients who have had residual silicone capsules removed, an ultimate improvement in their health. This is not an easy operation, and not everyone can do it.

It is very frequent that part of the capsule is so adherent to the tissue (muscle or chest wall/ribs) that full removal can be associated with risks of bleeding, contour deformity, chest penetration, pneumothorax). For that reason that portion of capsule may be left in place. You should wait at least 1 year until result mature and settle. Injection of fat grafts may correct secondary deformity if needed. Good luck.

Dear Cheerful267693,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It can occur that sometimes the capsule cannot be fully removed. If the capsule was adhering to surrounding tissue it could have caused complications or further trauma if it was forcibly removed. It sound like your surgeon chose the safer route for you.

I am sure your surgeon is very competent. Thin soft capsules can be more difficult to remove. Some areas should not be removed for causing more damage to the surrounding tissue, especially that on the chest wall. Your surgeon was being a good surgeon and doing what was safe for you.