Esmailian Logo
562.430.7373 Contact

While a capsule is a vital part of the breast implant process, it can lead to some serious complications, such as capsular contracture, which will ultimately require a surgical intervention. A capsulectomy is designed to alleviate discomfort related to breast implants and improve the patient’s quality of life.

What is a Capsulectomy?

Shortly after a breast augmentation procedure, a layer of scar tissue forms around the breast implant. This is a normal part of the healing process and actually helps the breast implant stay in place safely. But occasionally a complication called capsular contracture can happen in which the scar tissue around the implants hardens and contracts, resulting in both discomfort and a noticeable cosmetic distortion.

When capsular contracture occurs, patients can undergo a capsulectomy in conjunction with a breast implant removal or replacement in order to resolve the condition and improve their overall well-being and mood1. Capsulectomy procedures can also be carried out to address breast implant rupture, cancer or infections in the area, or because the patient would like breast implants removed and prefers to have a capsulectomy as part of their implant removal.2

The Different Types of Breast Capsulectomy Procedures

Total Capsulectomy

With this approach, the implant is first taken out of the breast and the capsule material is subsequently removed. This involves dissecting the superficial pocket surface and then carefully removing the rest of the capsule all the way down to the deeper levels. This technique is typically recommended for moderate to severe cases of capsular contracture, as well as other breast implant complications, such as calcifications of the capsule and silicone implant rupture.

Partial Capsulectomy

This approach is by far the least invasive when it comes to extracting the capsule. Only a portion of the capsule is removed from the cavity, leaving the rest to be absorbed by the body. This technique may be suited for patients with mild capsular contracture, as well as for patients who are removing implants for cosmetic reasons.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

This method involves removing the entire capsule and the implant simultaneously. While this is a more involved form of the surgery, it is often the best choice for patients who are struggling with the effects of rare conditions such as BIA-ALCL (breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma) or BII (breast implant illness).

Background media
Hot Model white underwear

Benefits of Capsulectomy Surgery

Potential benefits of capsulectomy include:

  • Relief from Pain and Discomfort: Capsulectomy can alleviate pain and tightness associated with capsular contracture
    • .
  • Improved Aesthetic Results: Removing the capsule can enhance the appearance of the breasts, providing a more natural shape.
  • Resolution of Implant Issues: The procedure can address complications such as implant rupture or leakage.
  • Peace of Mind: For patients with certain health issues, a capsulectomy can provide reassurance and improved well-being.

What to Expect from Breast Capsulectomy

Preparing for Capsulectomy Surgery

You will begin with a consultation appointment with Dr. Esmailian, during which he will discuss your concerns and goals and answer any questions you have. He will also examine you and review your medical history. If capsulectomy is right for you, he will give you detailed pre-procedure instructions.

Your Capsulectomy Surgery

A capsulectomy procedure is typically an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. First, Dr. Esmailian will make an incision within the breast along the inframammary fold or the periareolar area (typically thru the same incision that was used to perform the breast augmentation surgery). Then he will remove part or all of the capsule, along with the implant if necessary, depending on your treatment plan.

If desired, Dr. Esmailian will place new implants during this part of the procedure. In some revision cases, he will place ADM (acellular dermal matrix) which is a unique form of mesh that acts like human skin and may help reduce future risk of capsular contracture. Dr. Esmailian will then close the incisions and put drains in place in order to ensure proper filtering during the healing process, in particular if an ADM was used.

Recovery after Capsulectomy

Your recovery process will vary depending on your individual health as well as your treatment plan. In general, you may need up to 6 weeks to fully recover, although most patients get back to regular day-to-day activities within one week. You will need to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for several weeks. In the days following the procedure, it is normal for patients to experience symptoms such as swelling, mild bruising, and tenderness. If you feel any discomfort during your initial recovery, Dr. Esmailian will advise you on pain management. We will give you detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow up appointments with you.

Dr. Esmailian
Doctor media

Why Choose Dr. Esmailian?

Board-certified in the field of cosmetic surgery, Dr. Esmailian proudly provides patients in Southern California with some of the best cosmetic care available today. He is committed to achieving remarkable results, consistently helping patients improve their aesthetics in a totally natural and individualized way. Dr. Esmailian’s capsulectomy procedures are always customized to meet the needs of his patients. He is known for his undying integrity, always putting the needs of his patients before anything else.

Dr. Esmailian received his Medical Degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine and then went on to complete a General Surgery Residency at the highly-revered University of Southern California. From there, he decided to continue honing his skills by attending a Plastic Surgery Residency at the Indiana University Hospital.

Beyond his lengthy educational and training background, he is also an active member of the Orange County Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Frequently asked questions about Capsulectomy

Am I a candidate for capsulectomy surgery?

How do I know if I have capsular contracture?

How long does a capsulectomy procedure take?

Will there be visible scars after a capsulectomy?

Am I a candidate for capsulectomy surgery?

An ideal candidate for capsulectomy is in good overall health. A capsulectomy may be right for you if you:

  • Experience pain or discomfort from capsular contracture
  • Have ruptured or leaking implants
  • Are dissatisfied with the aesthetic appearance of their implants
  • Wish to remove their implants for health or personal reasons

How do I know if I have capsular contracture?

Symptoms of capsular contracture include breast pain, firmness, asymmetry, and changes in the shape or position of the breast. If you suspect capsular contracture, consult us for an evaluation.

How long does a capsulectomy procedure take?

The procedure typically lasts 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity and extent of the surgery.

Are there visible scars after breast revision surgery?

Dr. Esmailian always makes the incisions as small and inconspicuous as possible to minimize scarring, and in many cases, he can utilize the original incisions from the breast augmentation.

Will health insurance cover breast revision surgery?

Generally, breast revision surgery will only be covered by health insurance if the procedure is deemed medically necessary.

Will there be visible scars after a capsulectomy?

Dr. Esmailian aims to place incisions in inconspicuous locations. Over time, scars usually fade and become less noticeable. The same scars as the original surgery may be used to avoid any additional scars.

1 How do I know if I have capsular contracture? Arch Plast Surg. 2015;42(5):532-534. doi:10.5999/aps.2015.42.5.532
2 Breastcancer.org. Capsular contracture. Available: https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/reconstruction/corrective/capsular-contracture. Published 2023. Accessed July 19, 2024.

Page updated: August 02, 2024

Schedule A Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 562.430.7373.
Change Cookie Preferences
Contact Us