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Capsular Contracture: What It Is and How It’s Treated

Capsular Contracture: What It Is and How It’s TreatedCapsular contracture is a potential complication of breast augmentation that occurs when scar tissue around an implant tightens. While uncommon, it can affect breast appearance and comfort. Understanding capsular contracture helps patients recognize symptoms and explore treatment options. Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery, led by plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim, provides breast revision surgery to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

What Causes Capsular Contracture

After breast augmentation, the body naturally forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant. In some cases, this capsule becomes thick or tight, compressing the implant.

Potential contributing factors include bacterial contamination, implant rupture, hematoma, or individual healing response.

Signs and Symptoms

Capsular contracture may cause:

  • Breast firmness or hardness
    • Breast distortion or asymmetry
    • Pain or discomfort
    • Implant displacement

Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

How Capsular Contracture Is Treated

Treatment depends on severity. Mild cases may be monitored, while more advanced cases often require surgery.

Surgical treatment may involve removing or releasing the capsule and replacing the implant. In some cases, changing implant type or placement helps reduce recurrence risk.

Reducing the Risk of Capsular Contracture

While no method eliminates risk entirely, careful surgical technique, appropriate implant selection, and proper postoperative care all help reduce the likelihood of capsular contracture.

When to Seek Evaluation

If you notice changes in breast firmness, shape, or comfort after augmentation, early evaluation is important. Prompt treatment leads to better outcomes and restored confidence.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.