When you decide to undergo breast augmentation surgery, one of the most important considerations is the formation of a capsule around the implant. This natural process is the body’s way of protecting itself from foreign objects, such as breast implants. Over time, this capsule can become tight, hard, and painful, leading to capsular contracture. Many patients worry about how soon this capsule will form and its long-term impact, and for good reason.
At Executive Plastic Surgery, Dr. Shaher Khan specializes in helping patients understand the nuances of breast implant surgery and complications such as capsular contracture. In fact, Dr. Khan takes a clear and definite stand against breast implants because of the risks they pose to individuals. This article describes how soon the capsule forms around the breast implant, what you can expect as the capsule forms, and your solution.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture occurs when the body forms a thick, hard tissue capsule around an implant. This is a natural response to a foreign object in the body, but in some cases, the capsule forms excessively thick, tight tissue that compresses the implant. This condition can cause the breast to become firm or even painful, leading to changes in the appearance of the breast and potential discomfort. This is a common complication of breast implant surgery.
Over time, this tissue capsule can tighten, causing the implant to shift, distort, or become uncomfortable. Capsular contracture can develop months or even years after the surgery, but recognizing the signs early can help you address the issue promptly.
Common signs and symptoms of capsular contracture:
- You notice increasing firmness or tightness in the breast.
- The shape or position of the implant changes.
- The breast becomes painful or tender.
- The breast feels unusually hard to the touch.
- You experience a limited range of motion in the chest area.
- The implant appears to move or shift, creating asymmetry.
How soon does a capsule form around the breast implant?
After breast implant surgery, the body begins healing by forming a protective capsule around the implant. This capsule is initially soft and flexible and provides support to hold the breast implant in place. However, over time, the capsule can tighten and become hardened, resulting in capsular contracture. The timeline varies, but the process generally follows certain stages.
Stage 1: Early capsule formation (0–2 months)
In the early stages following your breast implant surgery, the body begins the process of healing. A thin, soft layer of fibrous tissue forms around the implant, which helps secure it in place. This capsule is typically not noticeable and doesn’t cause discomfort. The initial healing period may involve some swelling and mild discomfort, but this is a normal part of recovery.
At this stage, you might not even notice the capsule forming. The body simply responds to the implant by encapsulating it in a protective layer of tissue. If capsular contracture were to develop, it typically wouldn’t start until later, after the body’s initial healing process.
Stage 2: Capsule thickening (2–6 months)
During this phase, the capsule around the implant begins to thicken. The tissue may still feel soft, but you may begin to notice subtle changes in the firmness of your breast. This is when capsular contracture could start to occur in some cases. The capsule’s thickness may be uneven, causing the implant to shift slightly or become uncomfortable.
If you are experiencing any discomfort or changes in the shape of your breast at this point, it is important to contact your surgeon. While some thickening of the capsule is normal, excessive thickening can lead to complications like capsular contracture.
Stage 3: Established capsular contracture (6 months–1 year)
At this stage, the tissue capsule becomes thick and tight around the implant. This may cause the breast to feel firm or hard to the touch, and you may notice changes in the position of the implant. The breast may become painful, and the implant could shift upward or become misshapen. This is when the most noticeable symptoms of capsular contracture occur.
If you experience chronic pain, restricted range of motion, or significant changes in the appearance of your breast, corrective treatment is essential. Dr. Khan generally recommends an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the complete implant and its surrounding scar tissue.
Stage 4: Long-term capsular contracture (1+ years)
If capsular contracture goes untreated for an extended period, the condition can worsen. The hard, tight tissue surrounding the implant can continue to tighten, leading to severe distortion of the breast shape and potential chronic pain. At this stage, the implant is no longer viable, and an en bloc capsulectomy must be performed immediately to prevent long-term complications.
En bloc capsulectomy: the definitive solution
For patients experiencing capsular contracture or other complications related to breast implants, an en bloc capsulectomy is the definitive solution. This procedure involves removing the implant and the surrounding capsule in one piece, ensuring the body’s reaction to the foreign material is fully addressed. Dr. Khan’s unique “Khan Procedure” focuses on carefully removing the implant and capsule to restore the natural appearance of the breast.
En bloc capsulectomy is a highly effective method for treating capsular contracture and alleviating the symptoms associated with this condition. If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of capsular contracture or Breast Implant Illness, contact Dr. Khan today, he is here to discuss the best approach for your individual needs and ensure the best possible outcome for your breast health.
