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.