Decreasing Time Intervals in Recurring Capsular Contracture? A Single Center Retrospective Study over 6 Years
Vivian L Jakob1,2, Maike Keck1, Jörn A Lohmeyer1,2
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Agaplesion Diakonieklinikum Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|March 13, 2023
Summary
Breast implant revision surgery is often needed due to capsular contracture, occurring at shorter intervals with repeat procedures. Patients need clear information on this progression and alternative options for reconstructive cases.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Current breast implants are designed for longevity, but revisional surgery is frequently required.
- Capsular contracture is the primary driver for repeat breast implant operations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the indications for breast implant replacement and removal.
- To analyze trends in time intervals between consecutive implant surgeries, focusing on capsular contracture.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 498 breast implant replacement/removal operations in 323 patients (2012-2017).
- Evaluation of 717 procedures, including prior implant surgeries, to determine indications and timing.
- Analysis of time intervals between first, second, and third follow-up operations.
Main Results:
- Capsular contracture was the leading indication for revision surgery.
- Average time to revision for capsular contracture was 14.3 years (aesthetic) and 8.4 years (reconstructive).
- A reduction in time intervals was observed between successive implant replacement surgeries.
Conclusions:
- Capsular contracture tends to recur at progressively shorter intervals, necessitating patient counseling before initial and subsequent implant surgeries.
- For reconstructive cases with early capsular contracture, alternative methods like autologous reconstruction should be considered over repeat implant procedures.
