Breast Implant Replacement (Capsulectomy)

A capsulectomy, or breast implant replacement, is the removal of the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around any prosthetic implant. After implantation of any foreign prosthesis, the body forms scar tissue around it encapsulating it. This process happens following any breast augmentation or reconstruction using a saline or silicone gel implant. It is a normal process. In some instances, however, the scar (capsule) around the implant may thicken and contract. As a result, the breasts may feel much harder on palpation. The shape may become significantly distorted and one may experience some discomfort or even constant pain. Performing a capsulectomy and replacement of the breast implants should alleviate the discomfort and improve the appearance and feel of the breasts.

Best Candidates

Women who are experiencing a capsular contracture that is associated with breast shape dysphoria are good candidates for the procedure. Additional symptoms of pain or rupture of a silicone gel implant are even stronger indications for proceeding with surgical correction. Women’s breasts change with time and only performing a capsulectomy with replacement of the breast implants may not be sufficient in some instances to return the breast shape to the original post augmentation or optimal result. Assessment for the need of implant size and shape change as well as some form of a breast lift (mastopexy) is imperative. These decisions should be discussed and made by you and Dr. Nikolov during your consultation.

Risk

Any surgical procedure has inherent risks related to infection, bleeding, poor surgical result or anesthetic use. In addition, capsule removal procedures have other specific risks including the loss of nipple or breast sensitivity, the loss of breastfeedingability and the possible recurrence of the contracture problem. Dr. Nikolov will discuss all of these risks with you prior to the procedure and will give you recommendations to reduce the chance of another contracture.