The role of antibiotics-impregnated mesh in preventing capsular contracture recurrence: A single-surgeon experience

Capsular contracture remains the leading cause of revision surgery following implant-based breast augmentation, with growing evidence suggesting that biofilm may play a key role in its formation. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using an antibacterial envelope in reducing the recurrence of capsular contracture.

This retrospective case series included patients presented with capsular contracture. All patients underwent capsulectomy with implant replacement and placement of an antibiotic absorbable mesh placed anterior to the implant. Demographic information, implant data, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Patients with less than 24 months of follow-up were excluded from the study. Descriptive analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel.

A total of 18 patients (31 breasts) were included in this study. The mean age at the presentation of capsular contracture was 50.9 ± 9.0 years, and the mean duration since the placement of the original implant was 166.1 months. Mean postoperative follow-up was 54.7 months. All patients had Baker grade III or IV capsular contracture at presentation. Following capsulectomy with mesh placement, recurrence of capsular contracture occurred in five breasts (16.1%). Immediate postoperative complications included one hematoma that was treated with reoperation.

Our findings highlight the safe profile and potential use of antibiotic-impregnated mesh in reducing the capsular contracture recurrence. Further investigation is warranted to assess the outcomes and validate this technique for managing capsular contracture.