Capsular contracture
is a condition that develops as part of an immune response to the insertion of foreign materials, such as breast implants, into the body. When unknown materials enter our system, the immune system forms a capsule of collagen fibers around it as a way of isolating the material. When these fibers constrict it creates pressure on the implant or capsular contracture of the breasts. This pressure can cause pain and tenderness at the implant site and distorted or oddly shaped breasts. If left untreated, this could lead to hardening of the capsule or implant rupture and subsequent leakage.
Instructions
1. Examine your breasts for obvious signs of capsular contracture. If you are experiencing pain at the implant site, implants that seem to be taking on an unusual shape, implants that have shifted in position, or an unusual amount of firmness in the breast material, you may have capsular contracture. Please contact your health care provider for a professional evaluation and possible treatment.
2. Ask for an ultrasound. An ultrasound is a painless procedure preformed on the exterior of the breast. It can be used to assess the amount of contraction the implant is undergoing and the degree of hardening that has occurred. Certain types of ultrasound can also be used to treat the affected capsules, using electricity to soften the fibers and relax the contracture.
3. Take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce the swelling of the tissues surrounding the implant. Ask your doctor for a prescription or take an over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Asthma medications such as Singulair (montelukast) may be beneficial to prevent further hardening of capsular fibers and to soften areas that already may be compressed. Anecdotal evidence suggests regular ingestion of vitamin E capsules can help soften the fibers and allow the capsule to have greater flexibility and less rigidity.
4. Use compression wraps or elastic bandages around the implant site to help hinder the development of the fibrous capsule by restricting circulation to the affected area. Remove the wraps twice a day and massage the tissues to encourage the removal of any toxins that may have accumulated during the course of the day.
5. Have the fibrous capsule surgically removed if nothing else seems to be working. This will remove the pressure created by the fibers and allow the implant material to regain its original texture, placement and form.
Tags: capsular contracture, implant site, fibers allow, fibrous capsule, implants that, soften fibers
