Does strattice help prevent capsular contracture?

Question

I developed capsular contracture on both breasts. I had three surgeries and it came back three different times. My surgeon recommended stratice I am just scared at this point, I don't know what to do. I don't know if it's worth risking it or just get them removed. Do I maybe have to see a different surgeon? I'm not sure if this is being caused by the way the surgeon performs the surgery. Any recommendations on what I should do?

Michael Brucker, MD · Answer

There is no question that this is true.  I have had tremendous success fixing recurrent capsular contractures with Strattice.  In fact, of the over 50 patients I have treated I have not seen a single capsular contracture recur.  Most of these patients have been through multiple procedures and seen multiple doctors with persistent recurrence of their capsules. Strattice has been nothing short of miraculous in my practice for treating these very difficult cases and while it is expensive, with an experienced surgeon you should definitely pursue this option.  Combined with proper techniques such as the use of a Keller funnel (no-touch technique), an inframammary fold approach, copious pocket irrigation with antibiotic solution, in my practice I have seen patients with problematic recurrent capsule contracture have no recurrence with the use of Strattice. I would recommend additional consultations with board certified plastic surgeons to discuss your options in more detail.  Good luck to you.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

Definitely consult with several very experienced surgeons to see what has caused your earlier problems, and the best way to prevent them in the future.While Strattice may or may not help the rate of capsular contracture, it may be associated with other problems.

Larry C. Leverett, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes there is quite a bit of data that Strattice (and several other ADMs) help minimize the risks of recurrent Capsular Contracture. It is expensive but for some, it may truly be a worthwhile adjunct.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Capsular contracture is a very unfortunate complication of breast implant surgery.  It is a difficult problem as well, as it does appear that once capsular contracture has happened, the chances of it happening again are higher.The treatment would be to perform a capsulectomy, placement of new implants (possibly textured) behind the muscle (if they happen to be in front) and placement of ADM (acellular dermal matrix).  Of the products used out there, alloderm and strattice seen to have the most studies and data for their use.  There is a good study published in 2009 that supports the use of ADM for reducing recurrent capsular contracture, and the majority of the patients did receive alloderm and strattice.It does appear that you have run out of options, and at this point I would also say that use of strattice would be the best option.Hope that helps.

Shaun Parson, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question.  I'm sorry that you have been experiencing any issues.  It's never a bad idea to get a second opinion about things.  That doesn't necessarily mean that you have to leave your primary surgeon but it helps, at times, to hear things from a different perspective.  There are a number of things that can help when you experience contraction and strattice can be a life saver at times.  Some of the answer, to use strattice or not to use strattice, will depend on the amount of contracture you have and why you initially developed the contracture.  But the short answer is, Yes, strattice might solve the problem.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The literature suggests that using an ADM like strattice may decrease the risk of recurrent capsules.

Mehdi K. Mazaheri, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Sorry you are having recurrent problems with cc. Unfortunately once you developed capsular contracture you are at an increased risk for recurrence. Several things have been shown to DECREASE (not eliminate)risk of capsular contracture. Sub muscular placement of implants, textured implants (possibly), medications such as Singular and use of Strattice. Good luckDrMaz

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, 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.

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

I understand your concern as capsular contracture is a vexing problem.  All of the ADMs, of which strattice is one, do appear to decrease the incidence of capsular contracture.  Surgical technique and experience is also important thoughDr Corbin

Paul C. Zwiebel, MD (retired) · Answer

Capsule contracture can be an unfortunate complication after breast augmentation with implants.There have been published clinical studies showing that materials like Strattice, acellular dermal matrix or ADM, can help prevent recurrence of capsule contracture. The use of ADM in capsule contracture treatment is an option that is not universally implemented by all surgeons in all patients. Speak with your surgeon about their recommendations for you.

Does strattice help prevent capsular contracture?

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