Capsular Contracture Correction

Assessment considers symptoms, implant and surgical history, prior infection or wound problems, and breast firmness, position and shape. Imaging may be advised for new changes or implant concerns.

Baker grades describe feel and appearance: I is soft and natural; II is somewhat firm but natural-looking; III is firm with visible distortion; IV is hard, distorted and often painful. Grade alone does not determine treatment.

Capsulotomy releases the capsule; capsulectomy removes some or all of it. Treatment may also change the pocket, exchange or remove the implant, or include a lift. The safest plan depends on findings and goals.

• The breast feels unusually firm or tight around an implant.
• Breast shape or position has changed.
• A hard or distorted breast is uncomfortable or painful.
• The change affects clothing fit or daily comfort.
• You want assessment or review of treatment options.
• You are considering implant exchange or removal.
• A new breast change needs evaluation for other causes.

• You have implants and a change in firmness, shape or comfort.
• You understand symptoms may persist and contracture can recur.
• You can share implant records and prior surgery history.
• Your health supports surgery or can be optimized beforehand.
• You can attend follow-up and discuss observation or surgery.
• Wait if infection or another health issue makes surgery unsafe.
• Rapid swelling, a lump or significant pain needs prompt assessment first.

A thin capsule is an expected response to an implant and usually causes no problem. Contracture means it tightens or thickens, changing firmness or shape.

Infection, inflammation or bleeding may contribute, but the cause is not fully understood and may not be identifiable. Other conditions can also cause breast firmness, so assessment matters.

The surgeon may use an existing incision when practical, but new or extended incisions may be needed to safely reach the implant and capsule.

Scars are permanent and their appearance varies. Infection, tension, delayed healing, skin quality and individual healing can affect the result.

Anesthesia is individualized by procedure, health, preferences and setting. Options include general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation; awake or local-only approaches may suit selected cases, not everyone.

Surgery takes place in an accredited facility with appropriate monitoring. Your team reviews risks, fasting, medication, transport and recovery arrangements.

• Bring implant records, device cards and prior operative reports if available.
• Describe when changes began and whether they are progressing.
• Report pain, swelling, redness, warmth, fever or recent injury.
• Share medications, allergies, supplements and medical conditions.
• Discuss nicotine, cannabis and alcohol use and follow instructions.
• Ask whether ultrasound, MRI or other imaging is appropriate.
• Follow medication and fasting instructions; do not stop prescriptions independently.
• Discuss keeping, exchanging or removing the implant and likely appearance.
• Arrange transport, home help and discussion of possible lift or staging.

The surgeon confirms the plan and marks the area. Capsule tissue may be released or removed, and the implant or pocket addressed as agreed and guided by findings.

Capsule tissue may not separate safely from the chest wall, so removal can be limited to avoid unnecessary risk. Unexpected findings may change the plan.

After surgery, you are monitored while recovering from anesthesia. Instructions cover wounds, activity, medication, follow-up and symptoms that need prompt attention.

Recovery is individual. Your surgeon will give you written instructions specific to your procedure.

• May reduce firmness, distortion or discomfort from contracture.
• Allows assessment of the implant, capsule and pocket during treatment.
• Can include exchange, removal or pocket change based on goals.
• May improve contour, but results vary and are not guaranteed.
• Creates an opportunity to reconsider whether to keep implants.

• The cause is often unclear, and contracture can recur.
• Complete capsule removal may be unsafe or unnecessary.
• No particular shape, softness, symmetry or pain-free result is guaranteed.
• Implant removal can leave less volume or loose skin.
• Matrix or pocket change does not prevent all recurrence or complications.

• Observation may suit mild symptoms after clinical assessment.
• Capsule release or removal may be considered with implant decisions individualized.
• Implant removal without replacement may change breast shape and volume.
• Exchange or pocket change may be considered, with recurrence risk.
• Doing nothing is valid after evaluation if symptoms are acceptable.

• Contracture can recur and breast shape may change again.
• Implants are not lifetime devices; future assessment or surgery may be needed.
• Follow clinician guidance for implant monitoring and new symptoms.
• Seek assessment for a lump, rapid swelling, pain, fluid or skin change.
• Continue routine breast screening and tell providers about implants.

A consultation covers your goals, an examination, the options that suit your anatomy, and the risks and trade-offs, so you can decide at your own pace. Booking a consultation is not booking surgery.

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This page is general education, not medical advice, and does not predict your result. Outcomes vary and cannot be guaranteed.