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Following the placement of a breast implant after breast augmentation, the fibrous scar tissue develops around it and forms a tissue capsule. In response, the body’s immune system generates a protective layer of capsules around the foreign objects it identifies.
Generally, the tissue capsule is soft, firm, and aids in stabilizing the breast implant. However, in some cases, there is an occurrence of a rigid and dense tissue capsule which causes the condition called “Breast Implant Capsular Contracture“.
What is Breast Implant Capsular Contracture?
In case of capsular contracture breast implants, the scar tissue capsule forms around the breast, making it tight and harder than normal. This can cause the breast to feel abnormally firm and can distort the appearance of the breast. Furthermore, it can also cause pain and displacement of the implant.
What are the Common Causes of Capsular Contracture?
Breast implant capsular contracture occurs in approximately 5% of women who undergo breast augmentation. This, although the exact cause is often unclear, however, several factors have been identified that could increase the risk of developing such conditions:
1. Bacterial Contamination
One of the leading causes of capsular contracture is the bacterial contamination during the surgery. This might trigger and even exaggerate the healing process. Furthermore, even a few bacteria can stimulate the body to create a thicker, more constrictive scar capsule around the implant. That’s the reason why strict sterilization techniques and antibiotic prophylaxis are important during the breast implant surgery.
2. Hematoma
A hematoma is a collection of blood inside the body tissues that can generally occur after a surgery such as breast augmentation. If a haematoma develops around the breast implant, then it can increase and lead to capsular contracture of the breast implant.
Furthermore, the body’s response to the blood collection may lead to more scar tissue formation. There is a need for prompt treatment that helps reduce the risk of it.
3.Seroma
Similar to hematoma, a seroma is an accumulation of fluid within the body tissues. This fluid can accumulate around the breast implant after the breast enlargement surgery. While seromas often resolve on their own, their presence can increase the inflammation and stimulate the formation of dense scar tissue. All these contribute to the formation of capsular contracture.
4. Implant Type and Surface (Rupture)
Sometimes, the type of breast implant and its surface texture also influence the risk of capsular contracture breast implants. There is some evidence that suggests that textured implants usually have a lower risk of contracture compared to smooth-surfaced implants.
Plus, in case the breast implant ruptures, the release of silicone gel or saline solution can irritate the surrounding tissues. Also, it can have an inflammatory reaction that may lead to capsular contracture.
5. Surgical Errors
Another cause of capsular contracture can be a surgical error. Mistakes made during the surgery, such as incorrect placement of the implant or excessive handling of the tissues. Also, it can increase the risk of developing breast implant capsular contracture and emphasizes the importance of choosing a skilled plastic surgeon.
6. Genetic Factors (Predisposition)
Some research suggests that genetic predispositions can also cause the development of capsular contracture of breast implants. Patients with a history of autoimmune diseases or allergic reactions are at higher risk of it.
7. Unidentified Reason
It is also possible that the condition can arise due to an unidentified cause. Thus, this comes down to nothing more than a general defensive natural response of the body.
What are the Symptoms of Capsular Contracture Breast Implant?
The symptoms of capsular contracture vary depending on the level of severity of the condition. In the early stages, there might be a slight firmness and change in the texture of the breast. Plus, as the condition progresses, the following symptoms can be observed:
| Symptoms of
Capsular Contracture |
Explanation |
| Hardening of the Breast | One of the first and most noticeable symptoms of breast implant capsular contracture is hardening of the breast. This might not be accompanied by pain initially, but patients can experience it after some time. Furthermore, this hardening is due to the tightening of the scar tissue capsule around the implants.
Over time, this can lead to the breast to get firmer to touch compared to normal breast tissue or the early post-operative period. |
|
Pain and Discomfort |
As the capsule tightens, it can cause discomfort or pain when pressing on the breast or make certain movements. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and affect daily activities or sleeping patterns. Also, it may be more noticeable during physical activities or when lying in specific positions. |
| Aesthetic Changes | Capsular contracture can lead to visible changes in your breast shape and the overall appearance. These changes include the upliftment of the breast implant, distortion of the breast shape, or uneven appearance between two breasts. Furthermore, such aesthetic changes can prompt patients for medical advice. |
| Breast Asymmetry | In case you’re experiencing capsular contracture breast implants in one breast only, or may be both progressing towards different directions, then it can lead to asymmetry. One breast may look higher, feel firmer, or have a different shape than the other. Plus, it can be noticeable and distressing for an individual. |
How to Do the Diagnosis of Capsular Contracture of Breast Implant?
Diagnosing capsular contracture includes a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests. These methods help assess the severity of the condition. Let’s check them out in detail:
Physical Examination
The initial step in diagnosing capsular contracture breast implants is done through physical examination. During the examination, the surgeon evaluates the firmness, shape, and appearance of the breasts.
Imaging Tests
When it comes to imaging tests, they can offer you valuable information about the condition of the breast implants and the surrounding tissues. Some of the tests, such as mammography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Conclusion
Breast implants capsular contracture is a condition that affects women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery. Later it leads to discomfort, aesthetic changes, and potential complications. While the exact cause is still unclear, but some factors can affect it, such as bacterial contamination, hematoma, and genetic predisposition, can contribute to its development.
Frequently Asked Questions on Breast Implants Capsular Contracture
1. What Happens if Capsular Contracture is Not Treated?
If capsular contracture left untreated, there is a chance that it can lead to increasing firmness and deformed breasts due to the tightening. Also, you can see the noticeable changes in the breast shape, pain, and the physical appearance.
2. Can Massage Fix Capsular Contracture?
Massages can help prevent the breast implant capsular contracture in the early stages. However, it doesn’t always work, and effective methods are required. Furthermore, it can help soften the capsules, relaxes scar tissues, and promotes tissue softness.
3. How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Generally, breast implants typically last around 10 years, but it all depends on certain factors, person to person.