Breast Capsulectomy

Breast capsulotomy or capsulectomy are surgical procedures which remove or release the capsule that surrounds breast implants.

WHAT ARE BREAST CAPSULES?

• The body develops a lining to wall off all foreign materials such as breast implants.
• This lining is a form of scar tissue and is known as a capsule.
• Capsules also occur around other implants such as joint replacements.
• In most people these capsules remain soft and pliable and you will not be aware you have them.
• Approximately 4-6% of people with breast implants will develop thicker than normal capsules.
• Modern textured breast implants have been shown to have a lower rate of capsular contracture than the older smooth walled breast implants.
• Capsules can act like shrink wrap constricting the breast implants.
• This can cause :
  
  • Firmness of the implant
  • Tenderness of the breast
  • In severe cases changes in the shape of your breasts
• Breast capsulectomy is an operation to remove the capsules.
• Breast capsulotomy is an operation which releases the capsules internally.
• Depending on the type of capsules you have we will advise on the most appropriate treatment for you.
• Polyurethane coated breast implants have a very low risk of capsular contraction.
• To hear the pros and cons of using polyurethane coated breast implants listen to our podcast on polyurethane coated breast implants.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN BREAST CAPSULECTOMY AND BREAST CAPSULOTOMY?

• Your surgeon will usually use your old scar during surgery.
• This means you will not have any more scarring than you did before.
• This could be in the crease under your breast, the area near your armpit or through the areola (the dark area surrounding your nipple).
• The breast capsule surrounding your breast implant will either be released (capsulotomy) or removed (capsulectomy).
• It is normal to replace your old breast implant with a new breast implant.
• A breast capsulectomy usually takes 2 - 3 hours to complete.
• Surgery is normally performed under a general anaesthetic and will need to stay in hospital overnight.
• Most people return to work 1-2 weeks following surgery.

YOUR RECOVERY

• You will be able to walk around and perform light activities the day after your operation.
• Strenuous activity, however, must be avoided for at least 4 to 5 weeks.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

• It is possible that your capsules may return.
• The risk is higher in people who have developed capsules around their breast implants already.
• The risks of developing further capsules can be reduced by:
  
  • Totally removing the capsule - total capsulectomy
  • Replacing your existing breast implants with polyurethane coated breast implants