Capsular contracture

Capsular contracture is a formation of scar tissue that happens because your body thinks the implant is a foreign body and it forms a capsule around the implant. 

Capsular contracture is graded by the Baker scale from Grade I to Grade IV. 

Many women do not realise there is a capsule present and will not have any issues. 

Grade I and Grade II are usually milder and may cause no significant issues. 

Grade III and Grade IV are more exaggerated responses. 

This happens when the scar tissue around the implant tightens. It can make the breast feel hard, painful, distorted or higher than the other side. and should be investigated after a surgeon has examined the patient. 

What you could experience

Women that have Grade II and Grade IV they may experience the following: 

• Hardening of the breast tissue 
• Tightness in the area around the implant 
• Pain and discomfort from the breast 
• Shape of change, the breast may look round 
• One breast sitting differently and higher than the other breast 

Questions to ask

Do I have capsular contracture? 

What grade is it? 

Should I have an ultrasound? 

What are my treatment options? 

Ask your surgeon for a check up and discuss capsular contracture. 

Discuss a treatment plan that could be explant of the implant with new implants if this is right for you. 

If you are concerned that you are also having exaggerated symptoms as you have an underlying autoimmune condition, this should be discussed with your healthcare provider. 

It’s not your fault if you are unsure and need assistance from your surgeon. 

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