Without capsule formation, implants don’t stay in one place. When this happens, implants migrate and secondary pocket revision may be necessary. In some cases, capsule formation occurs in an aggressive form, which results in a capsular contracture. In severe cases of capsular contracture, the breast implants become hard, distorted, displaced, and painful. The majority of capsular contractures develop within six months of surgery, but they can develop at any time.There’s no laboratory or radiology test that makes the diagnosis. The diagnosis is entirely based on physical examination.
In an effort to minimize capsular contraction, surgeons frequently put breast implants underneath the pectoralis muscle. Sometimes texturized implants are used as well as massage. Both theoretically decrease the incidence of capsule formation.
Once capsular contracture has occurred surgical intervention is usually necessary. This usually involves releasing the scar around the implant by performing a capsulotomy or removing the capsule by performing a capsulectomy.
If you have concerns about hardening of your implants, it’s important that you see your plastic surgeon. Depending on his or her evaluation, a multitude of options exist to correct this type of problem.
