Is it true that removing thin capsules could cause damage?

Question

Breast implant removal with muscle repair but without taking out the capsules, I have a 3 years old implants under the muscles and my surgeon said my capsules are very thin and I would do more damage trying to get it out than leaving it alone since it’s thin. How true is this?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Concur with your PS's advice. If areas of the capsule are difficult or dangerous to remove, the risks of removing thin, pliable capsules outweigh leaving the capsule.  If there are calcific components, or silicone granulomatous material, or if the capsule is deforming the breast tissue, then removal of the capsule may be warranted.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There is a risk of damaging surrounding tissues when the capsules are removed, but it can be done if desired.  Typically if the capsules are thickened or the implant is ruptured, then removing the capsules is recommended.  If they are thin it is an option to leave them behind when the implants are removed.

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

Yes, removal of the capsule has a higher risk of injury than leaving the capsules.  Thin capsules can be completely removed but it more challenging, especially for implants below the muscle.  You would need to discuss the reasons why you are removing your implants and what symptoms you are experiencing.  Dr. Eric J. Wright

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

If the capsule is very thin it is unnecessary to remove the capsule.  If there is thickening of the capusle, if there is rupture of silicone implants, or any other medical issue at hand, then removing the capsule en bloc would be the preferred approach.For a simple explant where the patient doesn't want implants anymore and the breast is very soft and very thing capsule, then just removal of the implant is sufficient.Trying to remove capsules can lead to issues such as bleeding, sensation loss, contour irregularity in a thin patient and others.Hope that helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear huynhmylove,
most plastic surgeons don't remove capsules at the same time as implants, unless there is a thick capsule or capsular contracture. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Is it true that removing thin capsules could cause damage?

Answers (5)