One implant not dropping. Dr. wants to do a closed capsulectomy. Is this a bad idea? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast lift with the anchor method and an implant exchange 3.5 months ago. Early in the recovery process I noticed there was a flat spot under my left breast where the incision is. It almost seemed like this skin was pulled tighter than the right side. Now my right breast has dropped nicely, but my left has not. The vertical incision on my left is much shorter than the right. My surgeon suggested a closed capsulectomy if it hasn’t improved in 2 months more. What do you think?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I don’t think closed capsulotomy will work but the risks are few. I would wait at least another three months to see if your implant drops. If not it can be dropped surgically

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Leigh612,
breast revision surgery is the most difficult plastic surgery procedure performed. Botched breast surgery alters normal tissue planes and laxity, the ability of breasts to heal properly, and leaves scar tissue that dramatically affects the level of difficulty of the corrective surgery.Many patients come in to correct poor outcomes from their initial surgeries. The most common problems are due to implant malposition, bottoming out of the implant, poor scarring, and incorrect implant size.While the type of revision required will depend on the result of the previous surgery and the desired result of the patient, some revisions involve extensive pocket repair that may or may not need specialized external bras.If you are considering breast surgery revision, you should speak with a board certified plastic surgeon and have yourself properly assessed. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations. Also, you have to make sure that your surgeon understands your breast augmentation goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Erik Hoy, MD · Answer

Closed capsulotomy entails squeezing or pushing on the implant to try to use the device to stretch scar tissue.  It is associated with a higher risk of implant rupture or bleeding, and may void any warranty for the implant.  It is contraindicated by implant manufacturers in the US.  Capsulectomy is excision of the scar capsule.  Closed capsulectomy is a term I have not heard of before.
Hope this helps!
-Dr Hoy

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

For now, I would suggest external ultrasound therapy and Accolate to see if the implant could be encouraged to drop.  The closed capsulectomy was done for many years when we had the old gel implants that would get hard.  Since they were removed in 1992, we have been encouraged to not do such treatments with the new implants.  However, it could work, especially if ultrasound has been done first.

One implant not dropping. Dr. wants to do a closed capsulectomy. Is this a bad idea? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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Answer: Implants

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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One implant not dropping. Dr. wants to do a closed capsulectomy. Is this a bad idea? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

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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.