Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery, but getting breast implants isn’t always simple. Sometimes, revisions need to be made, or implants need to be removed or replaced.
After getting implants, one reason for a follow-up procedure is to fix a capsular contracture. This is scar tissue that forms around the implant and becomes so tight that it causes the breast tissue to look or feel unnatural. To fix the issue, you may require an en bloc or total capsulectomy. But just what is the difference between an en bloc capsulectomy and a total capsulectomy? Below, we dive into the details. To find out if one of these procedures may be right for you, contact our office and arrange a consultation.
After any surgical procedure, your body begins to build scar tissue during the healing process. The build-up of scar tissue is a natural response to a foreign object and is typically not noticeable.
When scar tissue forms around a breast implant, it creates a covering called a capsule. The capsule can create structure around the implant and help hold it in place. However, sometimes, the capsule becomes thick or tight and distorts the shape of the implant.
When this happens, the breast begins to look misshapen and may feel hard to the touch. In some instances, the capsular contracture becomes severe and causes pain or discomfort. The only way to relieve the contracture, restore breast shape, and eliminate pain and discomfort is by having a surgical procedure to correct the problem. This surgery is called a capsulectomy, and it is the gold standard treatment for this type of contracture. There are two methods with specific differences between them: an en bloc capsulectomy and a total capsulectomy.
There are two types of surgical procedures to help relieve a capsular contracture. The first is an en bloc capsulectomy, and the second is a total capsulectomy.
Capsular contractures are measured using a scale with four grades:
Grades 1 and 2 are not considered clinically significant and do not require surgical correction. Women with Grades 3 and 4 capsular contractures, on the other hand, may require surgery.
A capsulectomy is an open surgical procedure. During a total capsulectomy, the capsule is first removed, generally in pieces, and then the breast implant is removed. Depending on the desired result, the area is cleaned, and the implant is replaced, or the surgeon may adjust the tissue and close the area without an implant.
An en bloc capsulectomy is a variation of a total capsulectomy during which the implant and capsule are removed as one piece. This is often the best option if the implant has ruptured. However, if the scar tissue is too thin, an en bloc capsulectomy may not be an option.
If you have experienced a change in the look or feel of your breast tissue after a breast implant procedure, it is important to seek the advice of a plastic surgeon who is experienced in breast augmentation and revision. Without treatment, scar tissue continues to develop, and the breast tissue continues to become misshapen, increasing the pain and discomfort you may experience.
Typically, your knowledgeable plastic surgeon will opt for a total capsulectomy, or removal of the capsule in sections and then removal of the implant. While the en bloc capsulectomy sounds simpler, the technique carries more risk and is more complicated. Plastic surgeons reserve this surgical approach for select cases.
When you spend time and money to achieve your aesthetic goals, it is disappointing to have trouble with your breast augmentation. However, it is crucial to have your questions answered and address a capsular contracture before it causes greater pain, pressure, or an implant rupture.
Call our office today to schedule a consultation with skilled plastic surgeon Dr. Kai Morimoto. Our compassionate team can answer your questions and help you explore the difference between an en bloc capsulectomy and a total capsulectomy. Working together, we will find the right procedure for your body, goals, and comfort.
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