Is it better to remove capsular contracture grade 1 or leave it?

Question

I had breast augmentation last year and during my one year follow up my doctor told me I have capsular contracture grade 1. I am scheduled to have a breasts lift next month but I don't know if I need to do anything about the capsular contracture grade 1 or just leave it?

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. A grade 1 contracture is baseline for a normal evaluation of breast implants. You do not need to do anything about it. I hope this helps.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

There is not a grade 0 capsular contracture; therefore, grade 1 is the best possible. The greater question is that you had an augmentation only 1 year ago and now are having a lift.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! A Baker Grade I capsule is a good thing. That means the breast is soft and natural. We generally would only recommend reoperation for a Baker Grade III or IV. Good luck!

James Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your question. Capsule formation after breast augmentation is part of the normal healing process of your body. Any implant placed in the human body will form a layer around it which is called a capsule. Capsular contracture is when the capsule begins to cause either visual changes, palpable changes, or even discomfort. There are different grades of capsules (as you mentioned) however a grade 1 capsule is the lowest grade capsule that anyone with a breast implant will form. It should cause no breast distortion or firmness and also cause absolutely no pain. So to reassure you, if you have grade 1 capsular contracture, it is completely normal and yes, you can just leave it alone and enjoy your surgical results. Hope this helps.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Grade I is normal, not contracted. Did you mean grade II? Regardless, you can leave it or fix it, it is up to you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Anon485745,
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. You can replace your implants, tr wait to see if it will develop further. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

It is unlikely that you would need to do anything with that capsule.  If that is the true capsular contracture level, then you should be fine to proceed with the breast lift.  I recommend you work with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

A grade 1 capsule is considered a normal capsule.  It is optional to have it removed along with the implant or leave it behind.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon to determine what is recommended for you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Grade one capsules are thin and soft and best left alone, or more damage may be done. However, if you have textured implants that are being removed, the capsules could also be removed.  Capsules are not noticed until grade 2 when there is slight firmness or tightness, but not pain. Grade 3 is more tight and firm, and Grade 4 are rocks and usually painful.

Is it better to remove capsular contracture grade 1 or leave it?

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