One of the only complications following Breast Augmentation that may occur is called capsular contracture. Everyone forms a capsule around breast implants – it’s the body’s natural defence against a foreign body. Capsular contracture is an abnormal thickening of the capsule. Think about it like scar tissue. Everyone forms scar tissue but some people form thicker versions of it than others.

Capsular contracture that requires surgical intervention occurs in about 6% of patients. Usually causing pain and distortion of the breast shape. There is no way to predict who is going to develop it. Unfortunately it just happens and the timing of it is also unpredictable. It is not the patients fault or the surgeons fault if it does occur.

Many things can be done to try and prevent it from occurring as both bleeding and infection are two theories about why it occurs.

Here’s a list of what I do during Breast Augmentation Surgery to help prevent it:

Pre-surgery: Antibiotics 1 hr before surgery, stop any blood thinners, have patient shower morning of surgery.

During surgery: Nipple covers to prevent bacteria from the ducts getting on the implants, use of a funnel, antibiotic irrigation to implant and breast pocket, re-cleaning the skin right before the implant enters the body, use of electro-cautery to minimize bleeding, changing/washing surgical gloves before touching the implants, use of low lint gauze.

After surgery: Antibiotics for 5 days after surgery and prior to any dental cleaning if preexisting gum disease . Massaging your implants/breasts does NOT prevent capsular contracture.

If you are interested in Breast Surgery, Body Contouring, or Facial Cosmetics (Dermal Fillers, Botox, Laser Treatments, etc.) call (204) 885-1419. You can also connect with me on Instagram @drislur

If you have any questions or wish to book a consult, my Patient Coordinator is more than happy to help ☎️ (204) 885-1419