Confirmed capsular contraction 6 months post op. What are the chances of it happing again? (photo)

One of the inherent risks of breast implants is the development of capsular contractures. Although the risks are low, this definitely occurs in a percentage of patients. Once patients have developed a significant capsule, the data suggests that the risks of recurrence following a second surgery are slightly higher. Many things have been tried to reduce the risks of recurrence including: following multiple defined steps for the surgery, changing pockets, replacing the implants, reducing potential bacterial contamination, use of ADM's, use of singular, and temporary explantation. None of these have been shown to reduce the risk to zero. Discuss all of your treatment options with your surgeon before making a decision regarding further care.

Thank you for your question.
With implants, there is always a risk of capsular contracture. Replacing the implants is a suitable option to remove the capsule; however, you should keep in mind that is always the risk. I recommend speaking with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns.

Just based on the photos alone (without a physical exam) it is difficult to fully determine that problem. You may have capsular contracture on the right but you may also have a bottom out implant on the left. You need to see an expert in breast surgery that can do a correct physical exam and evaluate you. I would recommend seeing a board-certified or board-eligible plastic surgeon with aesthetic surgery training and experience to tackle this type of problem in a safe and efficient manner. Best of luck!

Performing a total capsulectomy and implant replacement via an inframammary incision should lead to a more rate of recurrence, probably near 5%.

Dear Nice830708,
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

Anytime you have implants, there is a chance of the capsule forming and becoming hard. I would add external ultrasound treatments to soften the capsule since it is early and could resolve. Hopefully you bought the extended warranty for the capsule.