What is capsular contracture/capsular fibrosis?

Capsular contracture means a Response of the body to breast implants. The body reacts to the implantation of non-endogenous material (silicone implant) with the Formation of a connective tissue capsule. This connective tissue capsule enclosing the breast implant serves as a boundary for the body and is a natural process, that occurs with every breast implant, regardless of the type of implant and the technique used to insert it. The connective tissue capsule that develops in any case is initially soft and cannot be felt, nor does it cause any discomfort.

breast surgery

Complaints after breast augmentation

When the capsule around the implant strongly hardens, shrinks and compresses the implant, then arises  Capsular contracture or capsular fibrosis.  As the capsule around the breast implant shrinks, the shape of the implant is changed and it comes off  Deformation of the implant, slipping of the implant upwards, deformation of the mammary gland which then also becomes visible externally on the breast. In the advanced stage occur additionally drawing pains from which the affected women suffer greatly. Nowadays women should be informed before implantation with a silicone implant that probably after about 15 years a capsular fibrosis can occur, necessitating a change of breast implants. However, capsular fibrosis can also occur earlier or only after decades, depending on the individual.

Symptoms of capsular contracture/capsular fibrosis

• chest pain
• Feeling of tension
• hard chest
• Breast shape becomes smaller and deformed
• Implant cannot be moved
• Implant slides up
• Wrinkle waves form

What helps with capsular contracture/capsular fibrosis?

1st revision

The technical term Audit generally means the surgical verification of the disease. During this review, the causes of capsular contracture are clarified and new diagnoses and problems are also revealed. In general, the narrow capsule is split and partially or completely removed and a new implant site formed. Usually implant replacement is also necessary.

2. Surgical breast implant replacement

If there is an advanced capsular contracture Changing breast implants to recommend. dr Haffner will remove the breast implants and remove the connective tissue capsule as far as possible. Whether the new implant can be inserted again in the older implant pocket is decided individually depending on the findings. Often a new, deeper implant pocket has to be formed under the muscles. Which cuts and which access is required when changing the implant also differs from case to case, individually. In an initial consultation, Dr. Haffner to discuss the possibilities with you.

2. Conservative therapy with massages

Though he surgical route is mostly choosed, an attempt can first be made to move the implant in the capsule with massage and stretching of the breast tissue. This procedure would have to be carried out regularly and can be very painful. Therefore, the surgical method is usually unavoidable.

Individual consulting

We would be happy to advise you personally on the treatment options.
If you have any questions, you can reach us by phone: 0221 257 2976, by mail: info@heumarkt.clinic or simply use our online Contact form for a consultation appointment.