Capsular Contracture Treatment
Capsular contracture is the most common long-term complication of breast augmentation and breast reconstruction with implants. It occurs when the scar tissue that naturally forms around the implant hardens and tightens, causing discomfort, distortion, and visible changes to the breast. Left untreated, it can affect both how the breast looks and how it feels, undermining the results patients hoped to achieve.
Dr. Rukmini Rednam, a board-certified plastic surgeon, specializes in complex breast revision surgery including capsular contracture repair. Serving patients throughout Houston and The Woodlands, she combines advanced surgical techniques with a patient-first philosophy. Her approach is designed to restore comfort, resolve complications, and refine breast aesthetics with natural-looking outcomes tailored to each individual.
What is Capsular Contracture?
The body’s natural response to a breast implant is to form a protective capsule of scar tissue. Capsular contracture occurs when this response becomes overly aggressive. The scar tissue tightens around the implant, leading to discomfort, firmness, and distortion.
While the exact cause isn’t always known, several factors may increase the risk:
- Bacterial contamination (even microscopic amounts) around the implant
- Postoperative hematoma or seroma (fluid buildup)
- Infection following breast surgery
- Radiation therapy after breast reconstruction
- Implant rupture or leakage
- Previous capsular contracture
Dr. Rednam’s approach to treating capsular contracture focuses on identifying the root cause and tailoring the surgical plan to prevent recurrence. In some cases, she may recommend advanced surgical techniques such as en bloc capsulectomy, implant repositioning, or the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to reduce future risk.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
Recognizing early symptoms of capsular contracture is crucial for timely intervention:
- Unusual firmness or tightness in the breast
- A round or misshapen appearance of the breast
- Pain or tenderness, especially with pressure
- One breast sitting higher than the other
- A noticeable change in implant feel or movement
Capsular Contracture Grading
Capsular contracture is categorized into four grades based on severity:
- Grade I: The breast is normally soft and appears natural in size and shape
- Grade II: The breast is a little firm but appears normal
- Grade III: The breast is firm and appears abnormal
- Grade IV: The breast is hard, painful to the touch, and appears abnormal
Before and After: Gallery
How Dr. Rukmini Treats Capsular Contracture
The definitive remedy for capsular contracture is breast revision surgery with a precise and experienced surgical hand to both alleviate the patient’s discomfort and achieve aesthetic objectives. This surgical procedure is not just a treatment option; it is the only method proven to resolve capsular contracture effectively, and Dr. Rednam’s expertise in this area ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care.
Personalized Consultation
Every journey begins with a one-on-one consultation, during which Dr. Rednam will evaluate your case. For patients with capsular contracture, breast implant revision surgery not only addresses the removal of the hardened capsule but also involves the careful consideration of whether to replace the implant, select a different type of implant, or adjust the implant position. Dr. Rednam’s approach is highly individualized, focusing on achieving a balanced and natural appearance while resolving the symptoms of capsular contracture.
What to Expect
Key components of Dr. Rednam’s breast implant revision procedure for capsular contracture include:
- Total Intact Capsulectomy: The complete removal (capsulectomy) of the scar tissue capsule. This is often necessary to relieve the tightness and discomfort associated with capsular contracture and to create a healthy environment for any new implant.
- Breast Implant Exchange: Depending on the individual case, Dr. Rednam may recommend breast implant removal followed by the placement of new implants (breast implant exchange). Options include different breast sizes, shapes, or types (saline or silicone implants) of implants to better suit the patient’s body or aesthetic preferences.
- Repositioning of the Implant: In some cases, adjusting the position of the implant, either above or below the muscle, can offer better aesthetic outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM): For certain patients, the incorporation of ADM materials can help support the implant and breast tissue and reduce the likelihood of future contracture.
Learn More About Breast Implant Revision
Recovery and Results
Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within one to two weeks. Swelling, bruising, and temporary tightness are common in the first few days, and most symptoms resolve gradually over several weeks. Dr. Rednam provides a detailed recovery plan, including:
- Activity restrictions and wound care
- Pain management protocols
- Follow-up visits to monitor healing
- Long-term strategies to help prevent recurrence
Final results typically become visible once the swelling subsides and tissues settle, usually within three to six months. Dr. Rednam’s meticulous surgical technique and experience in breast revision help ensure results that feel soft, natural, and aligned with your aesthetic goals.
Why Choose Dr. Rednam for Breast Procedures
Capsular contracture repair requires surgical precision, an understanding of breast aesthetics, and deep experience in complex revision cases. Dr. Rukmini Rednam brings all three. As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery, she offers an advanced, individualized approach to resolving implant-related complications.
Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, aesthetic changes, or uncertainty about the next steps, Dr. Rednam provides expert guidance and personalized solutions. Her goal is to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body again, with results that look and feel natural.
What Patients Are Saying
“Dr. Rednam is amazing…She answered all my questions and would even kind of read my mind about the things I was worried about. She is so great and I would definitely recommend her! She truly cares about her patients.” via RealSelf
Frequently Asked Questions About Capsular Contracture
Frequently Asked Questions
Unfortunately, once scar tissue tightens around a breast implant, the condition typically does not resolve on its own. While massage or medication may provide temporary relief in very early stages, surgery is the only effective, long-term treatment for moderate to severe capsular contracture.
Capsular contracture can develop at any time but is most common within the first two years after surgery. That said, it may also occur many years later due to implant rupture, trauma, or other contributing factors.
Yes, especially in more advanced cases. Patients often describe a sensation of tightness, pressure, or discomfort, and in severe cases, sharp pain or breast asymmetry. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s best to seek an evaluation.
While recurrence is possible, Dr. Rednam uses proven techniques, including complete capsulectomy and ADM placement when appropriate, to significantly reduce the risk of recurrence. Proper aftercare and implant selection can also help support long-term success.
The cost of capsular contracture surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case, the procedures involved, and implant-related decisions (removal, exchange, or repositioning). During your consultation, Dr. Rednam’s team will provide a personalized quote and discuss financing options.
Get Relief from Pain with Our Board Certified Breast Surgeon in Houston
If you’re experiencing symptoms of capsular contracture or are unhappy with your current breast implants, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to live with discomfort. Dr. Rukmini Rednam specializes in revision breast surgery designed to restore comfort, confidence, and natural-looking results.
Take the next step toward feeling like yourself again.
Dr. Rukmini Rednam has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.
Page Updated: