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Improve Your Quality of Life.

At Athēnix, we understand that breast implants can sometimes result in discomfort, asymmetry, or unwanted changes in breast shape. These concerns can affect your self-esteem and overall well-being. If your implants create unwanted challenges to your everyday life, contact Athēnix to learn more about your options from board-certified experts.

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What is a Capsulectomy?

A capsulectomy surgically removes the capsule of scar tissue that naturally forms around breast implants. This scar tissue, known as the capsule, can become thickened, contract, or cause discomfort. The procedure alleviates breast implant-related issues such as pain, changes in breast shape, and asymmetry, restoring the breasts’ comfort and natural appearance.

Is a Capsulectomy for You?

A capsulectomy is suitable for individuals who experience discomfort, asymmetry, or changes in breast appearance due to scar tissue around their breast implants. Candidates should be in good health and non-smokers.

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Discover the Types of Capsulectomies

During a capsulectomy, incisions are made near the implant, and the scar tissue capsule is carefully removed. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia for patient comfort. Athēnix surgeons employ advanced techniques to ensure safe and effective results.

Total Capsulectomy

Total capsulectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of the capsule that forms around breast implants. This comprehensive approach is often recommended in cases of severe capsular contracture, implant rupture, or when a patient desires a fresh start with new implants. By eliminating the entire capsule, it allows for improved aesthetic results and minimizes the risk of any residual issues associated with the old capsule.

Partial Capsulectomy

Partial capsulectomy is a surgical technique that involves the removal of a portion of the capsule while leaving some of it in place. This method is typically chosen when there is a milder case of capsular contracture or when preserving some of the capsule can be beneficial. Partial capsulectomy can help maintain implant stability and support, while still addressing concerns such as implant malposition or visible wrinkling.

En bloc Capsulectomy

En bloc capsulectomy is a specialized surgical approach where both the implant and the entire capsule are removed as a single unit. This method is often recommended in cases where there is a concern about implant rupture, silicone leakage, or when there is suspicion of implant-associated illness. En bloc capsulectomy ensures the complete removal of the implant and surrounding tissue, offering peace of mind to patients seeking comprehensive revision surgery.

The Benefits of a Capsulectomy

  • Alleviates breast implant-related discomfort
  • Excises painful, hardened scar tissue
  • Allows for replacement of damaged or compromised implants
  • Restores natural breast appearance
  • Enhances breast symmetry
  • Boosts self-confidence
  • Provides relief and minimizes the risk of future implant complications

After a capsulectomy at Athēnix, patients often experience a significant improvement in breast aesthetics and comfort. Removing scar tissue capsules allows for better implant placement and more symmetrical results. Many individuals find that the procedure not only enhances their physical appearance but also provides a sense of reassurance and relief.

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Your Recovery Process

Day 1-2

  • Immediately after surgery, you will spend some time in the recovery room to monitor your condition
  • You may experience some pain, discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the surgical site
  • Pain medication prescribed by your surgeon will help manage the initial discomfort
  • You will be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities

Day 3-4

  • You'll continue taking prescribed pain medication and any antibiotics if recommended
  • Swelling and bruising will gradually decrease, but some residual discomfort may persist
  • You'll be encouraged to wear a supportive surgical bra or compression garment to minimize swelling and support the healing process
  • Begin light walking to prevent blood clots and improve circulation

Weeks 2-3

  • Most patients can return to light daily activities and work during this period
  • Continue wearing a supportive bra as instructed
  • Swelling and bruising should continue to decrease
  • Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should still be avoided

Weeks 4-6

  • By this point, most of the swelling and bruising should be resolved
  • You can typically resume normal daily activities and work, but avoid high-impact or strenuous exercises
  • Follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding bra usage

Months 2-6

  • You may gradually resume regular exercise routines, but it's essential to consult with your surgeon to ensure it's safe
  • Scars will continue to fade and become less noticeable
  • Continue to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon as scheduled

Months 6-12

  • Final results should be more apparent, and you should be fully healed from the surgery
  • Scarring will continue to improve

Beyond 1 Year

  • Continue to monitor your progress and follow up with your surgeon as needed
  • Ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow any specific instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure long-term results

Capsulectomy FAQ

Why might I need a capsulectomy?

Is a capsulectomy a major surgery?

How long is the recovery period after a capsulectomy?

Are there risks associated with capsulectomy?

Why might I need a capsulectomy?

Capsulectomies are typically performed for several reasons, including the correction of capsule contracture (when the capsule tightens and hardens around the implant), to treat infection or implant rupture, or for aesthetic reasons, such as changing the implant size or shape.

Is a capsulectomy a major surgery?

A capsulectomy is considered a surgical procedure that typically requires anesthesia and is performed in an operating room. While it is not as extensive as the initial breast augmentation surgery, it is still a significant procedure that should be taken seriously. Recovery times and the level of invasiveness can vary depending on the specific case.

How long is the recovery period after a capsulectomy?

The recovery period after a capsulectomy can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the surgery. In general, most patients can return to light daily activities and work within a week or two. However, it may take several months to fully recover and see the final results.

Are there risks associated with capsulectomy?

Like any surgical procedure, capsulectomy carries some inherent risks. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in breast sensation, implant damage, and the possibility of recurrent capsule formation. It's crucial to discuss these risks with your surgeon and follow their pre and post-operative instructions to minimize these risks.

Let Athēnix Guide Your Capsulectomy

Reclaim your comfort and confidence with a capsulectomy at Athēnix. Our board-certified surgeons are experts in breast contouring procedures, ensuring you achieve the best results. Your well-being and satisfaction are our top priorities. Contact us today at 888-276-1535 and take the first step toward resolving scar tissue issues.

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