All implants and implanted devices in the body create a normal immune response where a capsule of protective scar tissue (collagen fibres) forms to envelope the implant. Capsular Contracture is the abnormal contraction or tightening of this capsule around a breast implant. When this happens, the implant may become compressed, deformed, and displaced.
Most commonly this is manifested as a tightening of the breast; the breast becomes rounder and seems to sit higher up the chest. It can occur within weeks or years of surgery, in one breast or both. If the condition progresses, the shape of the breast can become significantly deformed, and pain can develop.
The exact mechanism that leads to capsular contracture is still unknown, however it is hypothesized that inflammation is the trigger that causes the contraction of the normal breast capsule. The inflammatory process then leads to contraction of smooth muscles cells.
At the Toronto Cosmetic Surgery Institute, we are meticulous in our approach towards minimizing your risk of developing Capsular Contracture and in achieving the perfect, worry-free breast enlargement for you. The following steps are taken during surgery:
Since Capsular Contracture is believed to result from a combination of effects, other factors should be taken into account when making decision in the planning of Breast Augmentation. Above muscle placement may, for example, have higher incidence of Capsular Contracture, but is also associated with less discomfort after surgery and less unwanted movement with chest muscle contraction.
The following considerations will therefore also be taken by Dr. Jugenburg during the planning of your Breast Augmentation surgery:
