Is removal of capsule required?

Yes, 100%. The entire capsule as well as all inflamed or abnormal tissue must be removed as well. The capsule is what holds the silica or gel bleed.

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Performing a capsulectomy is unnecessary in the absence of capsule pathology or disease. Performing a capsulectomy can harbor the risk of lung injury, more bleeding, and increasing surgical time. No clinical study shows superiority in symptom relief when performing capsulectomy against other capsule surgeries. Trust your surgeon.

Thank you for your question regarding if removing the capsule is required. Your concerns are entirely valid, and it's crucial to ensure you're comfortable with your treatment plan and have trust in your surgeon's approach. When it comes to implant removal, the concept of total capsulectomy (complete capsule removal) has been widely discussed.

Generally, removing the capsule can reduce the potential for any residual silicone or implant material left behind, which might contribute to ongoing symptoms. However, in some cases, leaving a thin, healthy capsule in place is considered safe if it doesn't pose any risk or complication. It's believed that your body may reabsorb these thin capsules over time.

Your surgeon's recommendation about the Motiva implant capsule might be based on his or her experiences and assessment of your specific situation. However, if you're not comfortable with the proposed approach, it might be worth getting a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon who frequently performs explant surgeries.

Ultimately, the decision to remove or leave the capsule should be made in consultation with your surgeon, taking into account your individual circumstances, your health status, and your personal comfort level.

Thank you for your question, and I wish you all the best on your journey towards health and wellness.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

At ten months post op the capsule will be formed, but thin. It is important that you feel comfortable and confident in your surgeon and surgical plan. I encourage you to go to a few consultations to hear varying opinions. It's important you understand the risks and benefits of both approaches.