Capsular Contracture - what are the chances?

Your question addresses a
topic that is pertinent to anyone choosing to have breast implants.
Informed patients usually make good decisions in selecting their surgeons and
"finding" the best procedures for themselves so I applaud you on your
research. Informed patients also tend to have the greatest satisfaction
during their peri-operative process and for years to come. If we were
discussing the chances of capsular contracture in you by telephone (or in
person, now) we would decide what implant style and shape and what position
(pre or post pectoral) would be the best for you in achieving your desired
look. Following that discussion particular implant (smooth/textured, for
instance) and its placement would be reviewed and this would include general
statistics and the statistics of our experiences with capsular contracture and
implant types, as well. Bottom line is that with the newer silicone
molecule and different outer bag textures and thickness, the incidence of
capsular contracture is noticeably less than in the years preceding 2000.

This is a good question, and I'm sure one that others have wanted good information on. In fact, implant manufacturers have studied this rather extensively, and have performed both short-term and long-term studies. There are also many factors such as position of the implants (above muscle or below muscle) and the type of implant used (smooth or textured) for example. It also appears that some women may be more prone to developing capsules. Some may experience recurrence of capsule after revision while others do not and go on to having no further difficulties. We've even heard some claims that it depends upon the doctor. While there is no guarantee, and it is impossible to predict with accuracy who may develop them, the incidence is still rather small. The best prevention is follow up with your surgeon and adherence to his/her instructions following your surgery. In our experience, the number of women who need to permanently remove their implants due to capsular contracture is not very common.