Capsular Contracture
Though it is not common, capsular contracture is a complication that can occur from breast augmentation. It is a result of the formation of thick and hard scar tissue around the breast implant. Although scar tissue does form around any foreign object in the body in the case of capsular contracture, this scar tissue is so hard and thick that it makes the implant appear like a ball under the skin which feels unnaturally hard. In some cases, this scar tissue continues to harden around the implant so much so that pain results.
Unfortunately, it is unknown why capsular contracture occurs. Very few women get it, and most women don’t.
It is known, however, that some ways to reduce the chances of getting capsular contracture include submuscular placement and choosing an implant with a textured surface.
A textured surface may prevent capsular contracture because scar fibres do not form in a naturally aligned manner, thereby preventing that hardened pocket.
