Capsular Contracture: What It Is and How to Prevent It

Capsular contracture is one of the better-known complications after breast augmentation, though it’s much less common with modern surgical techniques. Understanding how it develops – and how we prevent it – can help you protect your results.

What Is Capsular Contracture?

When an implant is placed, the body naturally forms a thin scar tissue capsule around it. This is normal. Capsular contracture occurs when that capsule tightens or thickens, squeezing the implant and causing:

• Firmness or hardness of the breast
• Visible shape changes or asymmetry
• Discomfort or distortion

Why It Happens

Potential contributing factors include:

• Low-grade inflammation or bacterial contamination
• Hematoma (small blood collection) after surgery
• Smoking or poor wound healing
• Prior capsular contracture or implant rupture

How to Prevent It

I take several steps to minimize risk:

• Precise sterile technique, preoperative antibiotics and irrigation during your surgery
• Minimal tissue trauma during implant placement
• Pocket selection (submuscular placement reduces risk)
• Post-op guidance on massage, compression, and activity restrictions

Treatment Options

If contracture develops, treatment depends on severity. Mild cases may respond to massage or medications; more advanced cases might need surgical release, capsulectomy, or implant exchange.

Conclusion

Capsular contracture is uncommon but treatable. With meticulous technique and close follow-up, most patients enjoy long-lasting, soft, natural results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it painful?

Sometimes – often it’s more about firmness than pain.

Can it return after correction?

Rarely. Recurrence risk is low with proper technique.

Does massage help?

It can in mild cases.