Breast Augmentation and the Dangers of Capsular Contracture

f the biggest and aesthetically unpleasant risks ofin order to get maximum results, which may
breast augmentation is capsular contracture, alsomean an extra set of scars. Fortunately, revision
known as "breast squeeze". Few women aresurgery to repair capsular contracture has a fairly
aware that this is one of the major risks ofhigh success rate.
undergoing augmentation surgery. This condition isSome surgeons may suggest to adjust the
generally not a severe health risk; however, itplacement of the implants or to switch types in
does create emotional distress due to theorder to combat potential future development.
displeasing aesthetic appearance it creates.Recovery from revision surgery is generally less
Capsular contracture can occur shortly afterpainful and quicker than primary breast
surgery or develop over a longer period of time.augmentation, so it won't be too physically taxing.
The condition is characterized by the breastThere is no cure or known way to prevent
implant appearing "squeezed" and unnatural.capsular contracture from initially occurring or
Capsular contracture is the result of the tissueeven recurring after revision breast augmentation.
surrounding the area attacking the implant as if itYour plastic surgeon may be able to suggest a
were a foreign substance.few methods such as post-surgery breast
The breast may become overly hard and inmassage to help prevent potentially developing
severe cases discomfort and pain can eventhe condition. Many of these practice methods
extend into the armpit. In the vast majority ofmight have a positive effect, but otherwise will
capsular contracture cases, women feel little tocause no further damage or harm to the breast
no pain, but rather feel more emotional distressimplants.
over the aesthetically displeasing appearance.Besides capsular contracture, women should be
There is no clear indication of what triggersaware of all other potential dangers and risks that
capsular contracture in certain women; althoughcan occur during and after breast augmentation.
there are many theories and potential threats.Bleeding, extended swelling and bruising, skin
Women who have a tendency to develop keloids,necrosis, and permanent or temporary numbness
which are discolored, abnormally thick and raisedare all risks. Another common problem is implant
scar tissue that can expand over a healing wound,ruptures and leaks.
may be at a greater risk than others. SomeSaline ruptures can be detected within hours and
surgeons also believe that the placement andthe solution is absorbed harmlessly back into the
type of implant device may increase the likelihoodbody. Leaks in silicone implants, however, can take
of developing capsular contracture, althoughyears to notice if at all. They can often only be
research is not conclusive.detected by MRI scans, so it is recommended to
The only way to successfully battle capsularhave one performed every few years to ensure
contracture is through revision augmentationyour health and safety as silicone can potentially
surgery. For the revision surgery, it is notharm surrounding tissues.
uncommon for a different incision site to be used