Is a capsulectomy necessary for a breast cancer patient with saline implants? (photos)

Question

Hello, I was diagnosed with stage 1 mucinous breast cancer in Nov 2022. I will undergo a lumpeactomy plus radiation afterwards. Is it necessary to remove the capsule as well? I have had my implants for 13 years now and so far no major problems. They feel soft and a little firm but no pain. I think I do experience some BII symtoms but Im not sure. I would like to know if it's worth the risk to remove the capsules and would it interfer with radiation treatments. Much appreciated.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

En bloc or 100% total capulectomy is the gold standard with removal of breast implants. The capsule around the implant must always be removed along with all inflamed tissue or any abnormalities.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Nurturing11302022, thank you for your question. Yes, removing the capsules is key. I believe that every time an explant is performed, the capsule must be removed. Complete capsulectomy. Whether it is en bloc does not matter as long as the whole capsule is removed and the tissue is sent for pathology after taking the capsule out. This will prevent future inflammatory responses from the body because capsules do not get reabsorbed. Here is a video that sheds more light on the topic. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It would be good to discuss with your surgeon who is doing lumpectomy, whether your implant needs to be removed. Most likely not. In that case, you should have surgery and irradiation. Once the whole treatment is compleated, your should reevaluate your result and, it there is some asymmetry and signs of capsular contracture, proceeed with further treatment. Concentrate on cancer tretment at the time being. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nurturing11302022,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would remove the capsules to decrease the risk of fluid collecting, especially with radiation.  Also, the capsules can be checked. If they are very thin, the posterior portion could be left for safety.

Is a capsulectomy necessary for a breast cancer patient with saline implants? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Removal

Answer: Removal

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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Is a capsulectomy necessary for a breast cancer patient with saline implants? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Removal

Answer: Removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.