Capsule Contracture 1 year post op. Should I remove implants before or after pregnancy?

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thank you for your question.
While capsular contracture can cause your discomfort, it is not urgent to remove them in a timely manner. Replacing or removing them prior to getting pregnant again may be your best option in avoiding additional discomfort. I recommend speaking with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and concerns.

Hello @Lu89, thank you for your question. I suggest you take the implants before getting pregnant. Pregnancy and pregnancy treatments cause hormonal changes, which is why it is better to be without a prosthesis. . There is still a lot to learn about the effects of capsular contracture or the inflammation that occurs in the body. This inflammation causes a myriad of symptoms that are not related. What I have seen in my patients is that when they remove the implants with total capsulectomy, the pain and discomfort disappear. If there are other effects they start to diminish. If you are considering a breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Thank you for your question and sorry to read about your miscarriage. If you are not going to try to get pregnant quickly then I would recommend having the capsular contracture addressed. Capsular contracture can become more painful as the time goes on. I would recommend speaking to your Surgeon of choice to discuss your options, concerns and make a plan. Best of luck to you.

Dear Lu89,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

If the capsule has improved, you might do more Accolate and external ultrasound treatments. If it has not improved, then consider surgery if you are uncomfortable with it.

I'm sorry to hear about your miscarriage. If you are intending to wait a bit before becoming pregnant you should address the capsular contracture now as it may worsen as time goes on, especially since you are already experiencing discomfort from it. If you are intending to become pregnant right away you will need to wait until after you have delivered and completed breastfeeding for 3-6 months before having them removed.