Although the majority of breast augmentation patients have a smooth post operative course and excellent outcome, a small percentage of patients occasionally develop a long term complication. These complications typically involve:
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Encapsulation, or hardening of the internal scar around the implant. This typically occurs within the first 6-12 months after surgery but in some cases can occur years later. |
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Implant displacement or malposition of the implant. This typically occurs if the implant originally used was too big or the pocket was over dissected or in patients who have loose skin from massive weight loss. |
Dr. Kapoor performs a lot of secondary (corrective) breast surgery on patients who have had breast augmentation.
Depending on what the nature of the complication is, Dr. Kapoor will evaluate each patient individually and develop an individualized treatment plan. In the case of an implant that has dropped or fallen out of the pocket, correction usually involve revising the pocket with internal sutures to tighten the pocket and help re-establish the normal position of the implant. What patients typically find in cases where the implant has fallen out of the pocket, they notice when they lie down the implant almost feels like it’s falling into the arm pit area or sometimes as if it’s bottomed out with the nipple complex pointing upwards.
In the case of encapsulation, patients typically present with a hard, sometimes painful breast. In some cases, the implant remains high compared to the other side. This is usually treated with an open capsulectomy (which is surgical removal of the internal scar tissue). Even after a capsulectomy, there is still about a 15-20% risk of re-encapsulation. Breast massage may be helpful in preventing recurrence of capsular contracture.
Dr. Kapoor performs the breast augmentation revision surgery onsite at the Beverly Hills Wellness Surgery Center, a state-of-the-art AAAHC-certified facility. The procedure is done under general anesthesia, and usually takes 1-2 hours to perform, depending on the nature of the complication.
Recovery time varies, but most patients can usually return to work within three to four days after surgery. They still must avoid any strenuous activities, exercise, or heavy lifting for about 1 month after surgery. |
