Can You Do Anything to Help Prevent Capsular Contracture?

Breast augmentation is considered to be a safe procedure, but like any form of surgery, it comes with certain risks. One of the most common complications post-augmentation is capsular contracture. Before surgery, it is important that you understand what this is and how you can help prevent it from occurring.

What Is Capsular Contracture?

When an implant is inserted, the body naturally reacts to the presence of something foreign. The primary way it does this is by forming a capsule of scar tissue around the implant during the healing process. This barrier of scar tissue typically is a good thing with augmentation as it keeps the implant in place.

However, this scar tissue can become overly hard in some cases, causing an unnatural appearance and feel. This is known as capsular contracture.

Reducing the Risk of Capsular Contracture

There is no guaranteed method to prevent capsular contracture. However, there are protective steps that can be taken to lower the chances of it developing. These include:

• Stopping smoking
• Controlling for preexisting health conditions
• Selecting correctly sized implants
• Not handling the implants much before insertion
• Using implants with a textured surface
• Placing the implants under the muscle
• Gently massaging the breasts as they heal

However, even if these steps are taken, capsular contracture can still develop. If this happens, all is not lost. Your cosmetic surgeon will be able to offer treatment options to resolve the condition and help you achieve results you can be happy with.

To learn more about breast augmentation and steps you can take to get the best results, call our Fairhope office today at 251-929-7850 or head to our contact page to schedule a consultation with Dr. Koehler.