Capsular Contracture - what are the chances?

Question

I have exhausted the Internet and I am really struggling to find out how common capsular contracture is? I read percentages from 1% all the way to 50% and some even claiming every single woman will get it in her breast implant life time. I am 23, healthy, fit and petite (I also don't smoke), what are the chances of me getting CC and if I do get it, will the end result likely me getting them permanently removed?

Yily De Los Santos, MD · Answer

There are many
theories as to what causes capsular contracture and many of today's techniques
try to prevent it - such as using an incision in the fold, placing the implant
under the muscle, and bathing the implant and pocket in antibiotics. In many
patients it is not known why they develop capsular contracture (and if you
think about it .. why does it usually only happen on 1 side and not theother??). I would recommend a formal
consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon where your concerns can be
gone over in detail.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Your frustration regarding capsular contracture is not uncommon and is shared by physicians and patients alike.We do know that there are a number of factors which influence the development of a capsular contracture:-Implant position: sub-muscular vs. sub-glandular-Implant type: smooth vs. textured-Incidence typically rises with age of implant, however, some patients seem predisposed to early contracture-Any source of inflammation such as prior infection/hematoma may predispose for capsular contracture in the future-Prior contracture is a predisposing factor for a second contracture-Smoking and radiation (in the reconstructive population) have been associated with increased risk.Ultimately, the incidence is overall low and, on a positive note, there are a number of corrective options available. A contracture does not ultimate sentence a patient to explantation.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Todd C. Case, MD · Answer

In my experience, capsular contraction is not that common.  That being said, it is hard to put an exact number on it since capsular contraction can happen two years post op or thirty years post op.IT does appear to be more common when implants are placed in front of the muscle, especially if the implants are smooth surfaced in front of the muscle.  If you get capsular contraction, there are options for correction, but recurrence can happen.

Steve Byrd, MD (retired) · Answer

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.

Robert N. Young, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

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.

Capsular Contracture - what are the chances?

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