Capsular Contracture

After having implants put in to reconstruct my breasts, I have developed capsular contracture around the right breast. What are my options? I have an appointmaent with my plastic surgeon next week and I would like to be informed.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Jen, Capsular contracture occurs when the implant becomes surrounded by a protective layer of scar tissue inside the body.  The exact cause of this is not known; some researchers believe the capsule is a normal response to a foreign body, others believe it results from bleeding, infection, or leakage.  Regardless of the cause if the scar tissue shrinks around the implant it will make the breast harder, possibly painful and sometimes misshapen.    Contracture can occur weeks or years after implantation but usually occurs within a few months.

Treatment of contracture depends on the severity of the contracture.  Treatments range from observation to surgical removal of the implant capsule tissue or of the implant itself.

You may want to try searching in a plastic surgery site for more information about treatments of this problem.

[paige40]

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