Capsulectomy Procedure
In most cases, patients are satisfied with the results of their breast augmentation surgery. However, there are rare cases in which complications or body changes can cause issues with one or both of the breast implants. Usually, these problems relate to the appearance of the implants, but more serious complications can also occur. If you’re unsatisfied with the status of your breast implants, breast revision surgery may be the right choice.
WHAT IS A CAPSULECTOMY?
Capsulectomy, also known as capsular contracture surgery, is a surgical procedure used to treat capsular contracture. There are three common types of capsulectomy:
PARTIAL CAPSULECTOMY
In a partial capsulectomy, only part of the scar tissue surrounding the breast implant is removed.
TOTAL CAPSULECTOMY
In a total capsulectomy, the entire capsule is removed from the breast implant. In some cases, the breast implant will also be replaced after the scar tissue has been removed.
EN BLOC CAPSULECTOMY
In an en bloc capsulectomy, both the capsule and the breast implant are removed in a single piece. This procedure is most commonly performed when the doctor believes there’s a risk of the implant rupturing. The breast implant may or may not be replaced during an en-bloc capsulectomy.
BENEFITS OF A CAPSULECTOMY
For anyone who has experienced capsular contracture after breast augmentation, capsulectomy can provide the following benefits:
- Alleviates discomfort from capsular contracture
- Improves the appearance of the distorted breast implant
- Replaces the damaged breast implant if necessary
- More shapely, symmetrical breasts
- Improved self-confidence
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR A CAPSULECTOMY?
Anyone who is suffering from capsular contracture following breast augmentation surgery may be a candidate for capsulectomy. You could be an ideal candidate for the procedure if you meet these requirements:
Be in good physical health
Be suffering from significant capsular contracture in one or both breast implants
Not have undiagnosed breast cancer or precancerous breast disease
Be free of active infections
Not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding
COST OF CAPSULECTOMY
The price of the surgery can range from $5,000 to $9,000. Dr. Stephens will be able to give you specific information on the cost of your procedure during your consultation.
CAPSULECTOMY PROCEDURE DETAILS
The first step toward undergoing capsulectomy will be a consultation with Dr. Stephens. During this meeting, the doctor will talk with you about the symptoms you’re experiencing and may examine the affected breast. He will discuss the procedure with you and put together a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and preferences.
Capsulectomy is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. To begin, you will be administered general anesthesia to render you temporarily unconscious. Then, Dr. Stephens will make one or more incisions along the crease of the breast.
Next, if the implant is being taken out, the doctor will make an incision in the capsule through which it can be removed. After removing the implant, he will remove either some or all of the tightened scar tissue.
Finally, if you’re receiving a new breast implant, Dr. Stephens will carefully insert and position it. After that, the doctor will close your incisions and apply bandages and drainage tubes. In total, the surgery typically takes between one and three hours.
AFTER YOUR CAPSULECTOMY PROCEDURE
You should be able to return home within a few hours of the surgery. Most patients can return to work and normal activity after approximately two weeks. You’ll likely experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during this time, and you may need to sleep on your back for a while. You also shouldn’t participate in strenuous exercise for at least four to six weeks.
