Histology of the capsules causing constrictive fibrosis around breast implants

Histological features seen in 9 capsules formed around breast prostheses with Dacron patches were described. Dacron evoked a marked foreign body reaction and fibroplasia. Parts of the silicone layer in which the Dacron fibres were originally anchored may also get into the capsule together with the Dacron. The main cause of fibrotic thickening in the capsules was contamination of the tissues with a foreign material, very probably silicone. The contamination of the capsules showed individual and local variation, with no definite correlation to the time which has elapsed since implantation.