Capsular Contracture
Treatment
Dr. Chang's DC capsular contracture treatment, or a capsulectomy, is the removal of severe and, in some cases, painful scar tissue that has developed around a breast implant.
Once this scar tissue is removed then the implants can be replaced, or your natural breast tissue reshaped, and implants left out – it is up to you.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is the development of scar tissue around the breast implants beyond what is beneficial. Some scar tissue formation is good, as it helps the implants to remain in place and is the natural response of the body to foreign material within it. If the scar formation hardens and develops excessively then your breasts may feel hardened, and your breasts appearing distorted. There may also be pain associated with the scar formation.
Everyone heals differently and their bodies respond in varying ways to a surgical procedure. Connective tissue varies in quality from person to person, so everyone tends to scar in different ways.
Stages and types of capsular contracture
There is a grading system that shows the relative stages and types of capsular contracture. They are as follows:
- Grade 1: Healthy scar tissue forms a capsule around the implant and the breasts feel soft and have a natural appearance.
- Grade 2: Breasts look natural but feel slightly hard as the capsule that has formed is very firm. This may feel uncomfortable, but your breasts will appear normal from the outside.
- Grade 3: The capsule is firm, and the shape of the breast is noticeably altered. They may have a distorted appearance of may be oriented in an odd way and your breasts will not look similar.
- Grade 4: The capsule is causing pain for the patient and their breasts may feel hard and cold as well as looking misshapen.
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How is capsular contracture treated?
Capsulectomy
Depending on the extent of your case of capsular contracture you may have a few treatment options. One of Dr. Chang's DC capsular contracture treatment options is what is termed a capsulectomy, in which the scar tissue is removed from the breast. With this procedure, the implants are often removed as well as the hardened capsule that has formed. Depending on your specific case, new implants may be reinserted, or implants may be left out.
Ultrasound Waves
Capsular contracture that is less severe may be treated ultrasound waves to break up the scar tissue. The type of treatment used depends on the severity of your capsular contracture and what Dr. Christopher Chang feels is the best solution for you.
What are the benefits of treating capsular contracture?
There are many benefits to resolving capsular contracture and treating it early is important. Treating capsular contracture:
- Allows your breasts to return to their natural softness
- Removes any pain associated with the capsular contracture
- Gives you an opportunity to heal properly
- Prevents symptoms from getting worse
- Returns your breasts to a more natural shape and appearance
Am I a candidate for capsular contracture treatment?
If you are experiencing any of the following, then you may be a candidate for Dr. Chang's capsular contracture treatment in Washington DC:
- You have grade 2 or above capsular contracture
- Your breasts have become hardened or misshapen
- You have pain in your breasts from capsular contracture
- The implant edges have become visible on your breasts due to scar tissue formation
There are also other symptoms of capsular contracture, and a consultation with Dr. Christopher Chang is the best way to find out if you have capsular contracture and if you are a candidate for treatment.
What is the recovery time from a capsulectomy?
Recovery from a capsulectomy is often similar to the recovery period associated with a breast augmentation procedure. You can expect to feel some discomfort during the first two days, and it may be suggested that you take minimally one week off from work to heal and rest. You will be given specific aftercare instructions to follow during this time to help you to have a smooth recovery. You will need to wear a special supportive bra or garments that will support the breasts while they heal. As the procedure varies from person to person, recovery time can vary. The range is four to six weeks, after which you are free to return to more vigorous physical activities, with a week off work, or longer if your job involves more aggressive physical motions.
Why choose Dr. Christopher Chang for capsular contracture treatment?
Dr. Christopher Chang has helped many women resolve the uncomfortable symptoms and unpleasant appearance of breast implants that have developed capsular contracture and can provide you with information on treatment. If you see changes in your implants and suspect capsular contracture, then Dr. Christopher Chang will be able to discover the extent of the problem and craft the best treatment plan for you. If you are already a patient of Dr. Chang’s, then he will be able to monitor your breasts over time to discover whether or not capsular contracture is developing. Feel confident in knowing that your breast implants are healthy and normal and take steps to ensure your wellness by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Chang, a top DC breast augmentation and enhancement surgeon.
FAQ
Will there be scarring?
There may be scarring if new incision sites are required for your treatment. This will be discussed with your beforehand, but it is common to create the incisions at the pre-existing scar line so that additional scars are not created.
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"I went to Dr. Chang to correct the damage done to my breasts from pregnancy and breastfeeding. He went above and beyond to make me comfortable and to explain exactly what the procedures (lift + implants) would entail. He was extremely responsive and truly understood the look that I was trying to achieve - full, natural for my frame, and with minimal scarring. I'm only two days out from surgery and I'm already loving my results. I am so glad that I chose Dr. Chang to restore my chest to its pre-baby appearance. I actually think they are going to be better than they ever were before I had kids!" - Emily L.
