Breast Implant Capsular Contracture

In New York City

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Introduction to Breast Implant Capsular Contracture

Dealing with breast implant capsular contracture can be frustrating. But there’s good news – surgery can help restore a natural, softer feel and fix any changes in shape. If you’re experiencing these issues and are in the New York City or New Jersey area, Dr. Mazzaferro is here to guide you through your options and help you find the right solution.

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What is Breast Implant Capsular Contracture?

Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery, where excessive scar tissue forms around the breast implant, causing discomfort, distortion, or hardening of the breast. This complication can happen with both saline and silicone implants and can develop at any time after surgery, though it is most common within the first few months to years post-op.

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Symptoms of Capsular Contracture:

  • Firm or hard feeling in the affected breast
  • Pain or discomfort, especially when moving
  • Distortion of the breast’s shape
  • The implant may move upward, creating asymmetry
  • Tightness or a squeezing sensation

Capsular Contracture Grading:

Plastic surgeons often classify capsular contracture using the Baker Classification:

  • Baker Grade I: The breast is soft and appears natural.
  • Baker Grade II: The breast is slightly firm but looks normal.
  • Baker Grade III: The breast is firm and appears abnormal.
  • Baker Grade IV: The breast is hard, painful, and distorted.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Implant Capsular Contracture?

Surgery for breast implant capsular contracture can bring significant relief and enhance physical comfort and appearance. Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue hardens around the implant, leading to pain, tightness, and changes in breast shape. Removing or releasing these hardened capsules and replacing the implant restores a more natural, soft breast contour, alleviates discomfort, and improves symmetry. Beyond physical relief, many patients feel renewed self-confidence and comfort in their appearance after capsular contracture correction surgery.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Breast Implant Capsular Contracture?

The best candidates for breast implant capsular contracture surgery are those who:

  • Feel discomfort or pain: Surgery can provide much-needed relief if you’re dealing with pain or tightness around your implants.
  • Notice changes in shape or appearance: Capsular contracture can distort the look of your breasts, making them appear hard or uneven. Surgery can help restore a more natural shape.
  • Have tried other treatments without success: If non-surgical methods like massage or medication haven’t worked, surgical intervention may be necessary.
  • Want to improve aesthetics? If the firmness or distortion impacts your confidence, this surgery can help restore your desired breast look.
  • Are in good overall health: To ensure smooth surgery and recovery, it’s important to be generally healthy without conditions that could interfere with the procedure.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, Dr. Mazzaferro can help you explore the best treatment options to get back to feeling your best.

Treatment Options for Capsular Contracture:

Non-Surgical Treatment

In the early stages, capsular contracture may be treated with conservative approaches, such as breast massage or ultrasound therapy, to break up scar tissue. However, non-invasive treatments are typically only effective in the condition’s early stages.

Capsulectomy

A surgical procedure to remove the scar tissue (capsule) surrounding the implant. This can involve:

  • Partial Capsulectomy: Removal of part of the capsule while leaving some tissue intact.
  • Total Capsulectomy: Complete removal of the capsule and implant.
  • En Bloc Capsulectomy: This procedure removes the implant and capsule together as one unit. It is often used in cases of rupture or infection.

After capsulectomy, patients can either choose to replace their implants or undergo a breast lift if they wish to return to their natural breast appearance.

Implant Replacement

In some cases, new implants are placed in a different plane (submuscular instead of subglandular) to reduce the risk of future contracture. Many patients opt for newer, more advanced implant options during this procedure.

Preventing Capsular Contracture

  • Proper surgical technique is key to reducing the risk of capsular contracture. Ensuring a sterile environment and using textured implants or placing implants under the muscle can reduce the likelihood of contracture.
  • Patients are often advised to perform regular breast massages after surgery to keep the tissue pliable.
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Recovery from Capsular Contracture Surgery

  • Recovery time varies based on the type of procedure performed. Most patients can return to light activities within a week and full activities within 3-4 weeks.
  • Pain and discomfort should subside within a few days, and any drains placed during surgery are typically removed within a week.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of capsular contracture in the New York City or New Jersey area, consult with an experienced plastic surgeon to explore your treatment options. The right approach, whether implant removal, replacement or a capsulectomy, can restore comfort and aesthetics.

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Why Choose Dr. Mazzaferro?

Dr. Daniel Mazzaferro provides relief and restoring comfort for breast implant capsular contracture patients. This condition can cause you pain, discomfort, and changes in breast shape, but Dr. Mazzaferro offers personalized treatment options, including capsulectomy and implant replacement, to help restore a natural look and alleviate symptoms. If you’re struggling with the effects of capsular contracture, schedule a consultation today to explore the best solution for you and take the next step toward regaining comfort and confidence.

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Capsular Contracture Surgery

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms of breast implant capsular contracture, the first step toward relief is a consultation with Dr. Mazzaferro. During your visit, Dr. Mazzaferro will evaluate your condition, discuss your symptoms, and explain your treatment options. Whether you’re considering implant removal, replacement, or a capsulectomy, he’ll help you find a solution that restores comfort, aesthetics, and confidence. Schedule your consultation today to take the next step toward feeling your best again.

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