Do capsules under the muscle always attach to ribs/chest wall?

Question

I've read multiple times that it can be very difficult to remove the backside of capsules that are under the muscle. Do they *always* densely attach to ribs / chest wall? (Especially after ~ 13 years). Or are they sometimes just between the implant and chest wall, but not "stuck down"? Silly question I'm sure but just wondering as I try to prepare for an explant and how painful the capsulectomy recovery might be. I realize the surgeon won't know what's going on in there until he's in there.

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question. Capsule forms around every breast implant, and if the implants is placed under the muscle the capsule will be attached to the ribs and chest wall. The state of the capsule and the reason for the capsulectomy are very important factors, although it can be done safely. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Fellowship-trained plastic surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear pinkgolden11,
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

Do capsules under the muscle always attach to ribs/chest wall?

Answers (2)