Can Capsule Contracture Be Prevented?
Capsule contracture is one of the most common side effects of breast augmentation surgery, but there is no definitive reason for it. While capsule contracture prevention is not yet possible, it can be remedied by a surgical procedure (capsulectomy). Once the capsule is removed, your breast implants will once again feel soft.
Not every woman will experience a capsule contracture to the point of necessitating corrective surgery. Many women have had implants for 30–40 years or even a lifetime without any visible signs of capsule contracture. Despite ongoing research, its cause is not known at this time.
Capsule contractures are graded by surgeons using the Baker Grading System:
- Baker Grade I: The breast is soft and natural. An implant patient’s body forms a capsule around the implant, but it’s only when the capsule begins to contract that capsule contracture occurs.
- Baker Grade II: The breast is a little firm, but still appears natural.
- Baker Grade III: The breast is firm and beginning to distort in shape.
- Baker Grade IV: The breast is hard and has become quite distorted in shape. Pain/discomfort may be associated with this level.
