What are the chances of my breast implant becoming encapsulated? 40 years old considering saline implants.

Dear norma.peralta,Capsular contracture happens. In fact, every implant has a capsule form around it, its just a certain percentage develop thick capsules. There is a lot we don't know about it actually. Some think that bacteria that gets on the implant during insertion can increase the risk. Thats why we use a Keller Funnel in our practice to reduce that possibility. Our capsular contracture rate is less than 2% because we use a keller funnel as well as meticulous operating room techniques.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

saline implants placed under the muscle have a significantly lower incidence of capsular contracture than silicone.  Why this is the case we don't know.  I actually prefer saline because of the low capsule rate.

hello thank you for your question and provided informaton as welll..
based on the exposed case. It depends a lot on the body to encapsulate an implant, since studies have shown that the encapsulated imlantes can be of saline material, silicone and in lesser percent those of polyurethane.If it happens, a capsulectomy and replacement of implants should be performed.

The chances of capsular contracture after breast augmentation is low especially when the implants are placed behind the muscle. I have had only 4 patients out of 6500 with this.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

All implants cause the body to form a layer of tissue called the capsule. When the capsule thickens, tightens, and squeezes or distorts the implant (with or without pain), it is referred to as a capsular contracture (or "capcon" for short). Capcon rates have recently been shown to be lower with inframammary incisions and the overall rate of contracture seems to be lowering in this era of cohesive gel implants. Saline implants will tend to feel firmer (even if no capcon is present) than silicone, so that is something to be considered. The main advantages of saline tend to be:1. If they leak, you know they are leaking (the implant deflates) and it is only salt water, and2. They are cheaper.Overall, however, most surgeons agree that silicone implants give a softer, more natural feel and seem to conform better to the surgical pocket. Make sure you are being adequately informed of your options before picking your implant.

The risk of breast implant and capsular contracture is becoming lower due to the fact that today's surgeons are much more aware of the risk and much more careful about tissue and implant manipulation to minimize any risk of contamination and irritation to the pocket which can stimulate capsule formation. Reports are usually between 3-5% for cosmetic procedures. Risks can vary depending on the pocket location and incision location. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
IG @drjohnsonlee

The chances of a capsular contracture are probably in the order of roughly 5% for patients receiving partial subpectoral smooth saline or silicone augmentation. Another important issue for you to consider your age is whether a saline implant is desirable as compared to a cohesive silicone gel implant. When you select an ABPS board-certified plastic surgeon you can discuss all of your options and make the best choice for you.Enjoy the video link below and best wishes for a good outcome.Jon A Perlman M.D., FACSDiplomate, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)ABC-TV Extreme Makeover SurgeonBeverly Hills, CaliforniaIG: jonperlmanmd

All breast implants have capsules around them making them encapsulated, that is a normal part of the healing process. But tight contracted capsules are seen rarely now, the risk seems to be under 5%  in the hands of experienced surgeons. Saline implants have a higher risk of dissatisfaction among patients due to the chance of rippling and feeling like water balloons while silicone implants have become more popular as they can be hard to differentiate from fat.