Breast Implant Capsule Formation

What is a capsule & what happens if it contracts?

It is a part of the body’s normal healing process to form scar tissue around a breast implant. The scar forms a pocket also called the capsule. A normal capsule is soft and usually undetectable. This type of scar tissue is desirable as it prevents the implant from mal-position or migrating around under the skin.

Capsular contracture occurs when the capsule becomes thick or tight. In correlation of the capsule contracting on the implant, it can make the breast feel firm or immobile. It can occur in one or both of the breasts. Baker’s grades of capsular contracture is used to determine what kind of scar tissue you have.

Grade I – Naturally soft, not palpable

Grade II – Increased firmness, tissue may be detectable, but usually no visual distortion

Grade III – Firm to touch, Immobile causing some visual distortion

Grade IV – Same as Grade III and painful

Sometimes abnormal scar tissue forms due to our body’s physiology or normal response to healing, or it could be due to trauma or non compliance to post-operative recommendations. Although repairing capsular contracture is not a medical necessity, many patients who experience a Grade III or IV contracture benefit from breast implant exchange surgery. With over a decade of experience, Las Vegas, NV Plastic Surgeon Dr. Alexander knows the pearls of how to improve and minimize capsular contracture. There are specific recommendations and post-operative care instructions that can help reduce your chance of abnormal scarring. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation appointment!