Scar tissue formation around breast implants after augmentation surgery is normal. The body will always create a capsule of scar tissue around any foreign device put in the body as a protective action. However, if there is excess scar tissue produced, it can restrict the breasts and cause changes in appearance. This condition is called capsular contracture, which is a minor risk of breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Peter Koltz at pēkomd® offers capsular contracture after breast implants treatment at our facility in Toledo, OH.
Despite using the most advanced methods and preventive techniques, capsular contracture is always a risk when performing breast augmentation with implants. There are preventive measures that can reduce the risk, but even the best breast plastic surgeons can have a small percentage of patients who experience capsular contracture. Not all cases require treatment or surgery – it depends on the severity of their symptoms.
Symptoms of Capsular Contracture
Most cases of capsular contracture after breast augmentation surgery will occur within two years of surgery. The thickening scar tissue can constrict the implant and may result in discomfort or deformity of the breasts. Some of the symptoms of capsular contracture after breast implants include:
- Hard tissue in breasts
- Breast pain and discomfort
- High-riding breast appearance
- Ball-shaped breasts
- Asymmetrical or misshapen breasts
If symptoms of capsular contracture are severe, treatment may be needed. The most common capsular contracture after breast implants treatment is removal of the scar tissue around the implant to improve symptoms. Another option is to remove the scar tissue and perform a removal or replacement of the breast implants. The implants and scar tissue can be carefully removed, and the breasts reshaped. Patients with capsular contracture can choose to have new implants inserted or mastopexy to improve the shape of their breasts. If more volume is desired without new implants, Dr. Koltz may recommend options like autologous reconstruction, which uses abdominal tissue to rebuild the breast shape.
Capsular contracture risks are low with breast augmentation. Those with certain autoimmune disorders, genetic conditions, breast trauma and other risk factors are more likely to have this rare complication. If you have symptoms of capsular contracture, our team at pēkomd® cosmetic surgery center can offer treatment options. Contact our facility in Toledo, OH, to schedule a consultation at our office.
