Encapsulated twice. Is it likely it would happen again if I had another surgery? Does my body just reject implants?

Question

I have had 2 breast augmentation surgeries, 1 saline, 1 gel by 2 different doctors. My right breast got encapsulated twice. Is it likely it would happen again if I had another surgery? Does my body just rejecting implants?

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately there are some patients that make aggressive scar tissue around breast implants. This is called capsular contracture.  This is not a "rejection" of the implants by any means.  It can sometimes be related to a low grade infection and the treatment is to remove the implants and place new ones.  If you had aggressive capsular contracture after the revision, you may be prone to developing it again after a 3rd surgery.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complications you have experienced. Capsular contraction can be a very frustrating complication for both patients and surgeons. In my practice, I have found the most success treating these difficult problems utilizing techniques such as sub muscular pocket conversion (if relevant), capsulectomy, use of fresh implants (I am not convinced that there is a difference with smooth versus textured implants as long as the breast implants are in the sub muscular position), and the use of acellular dermal matrix. Acellular dermal matrix is a biologic implant that carries the ability to become integrated into native tissue. It is made by taking a full thickness section of skin from a donor source (his human, porcine, or bovine in origin). I hope this, and the attached link ( demonstrating a case utilizing acellular dermal matrix) helps. Best wishes.

Susan Kaweski, MD · Answer

There is no easy answer to your question. First a determination needs to be made as to what has caused it such as infection, seroma, hematoma, placement. operative reports from the previous surgeons will help to a degree. I usually submit the capsule for pathological determination just to be sure I haven't missed something more ominous. Treatment methods include different type of implant, change of pocket, use of acellular dermal matrix, and medications. Also cessation of smoking is essential.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for your question and sorry for your problems.  That said I have had a 100% success rate with patients similar to yourself using a protein matrix(ADM) associated with a pocket revisionDr Corbin

Encapsulated twice. Is it likely it would happen again if I had another surgery? Does my body just reject implants?

Answers (4)

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

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.

Encapsulated twice. Is it likely it would happen again if I had another surgery? Does my body just reject implants?

Answers (4)

Answer: Capsular contracture

Answer: Capsular contracture

Browse related questions

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.