Breast enhancement surgery has come a long way since the first implant in 1962. However, even with the great advancements, we have seen in this type of surgery, complications can still arise. Breast implant complications can be minor with the patient experiencing some hardness and discomfort, or major where the patient experiences disfigured breasts and unbearable pain. One of the more common complications is called Capsular Contracture.
What is Capsular Contracture?
Capsular Contracture also referred to as breast implant hardening, is one of the more common and unpredictable complications that occur following breast augmentation surgery. While Capsular Contracture is a common complication, it occurs in only a small percentage of patients. The exact cause of this complication is unknown, however, there are several causative factors including prior radiation therapy, hematoma (bleeding), infection, and biofilm formation.
A capsule of scar tissue forms around the breast following breast implant surgery. In normal cases the scar tissue remains soft and flexible; however, in a small number of women, this scar tissue begins to harden. This hardening of the implant can cause the breast to feel hard and appear unnaturally round, it may be painful as well.
Symptoms of Capsular Contracture
Signs and symptoms of Capsular Contracture usually develop slowly and may include:
- Increasing firmness of the breast
- Tightness, hardness, or pain
- The implant is distorted or may appear round
- The implant looks high-riding on the chest
- The implant does not move
The degree of Capsular Contracture is measured utilizing the Baker grading system. The four levels of this complication include:
- Grade I: The breast looks natural and is soft.
- Grade II: The breast looks normal and is slightly firm.
- Grade III: The breast looks abnormal but is firm.
- Grade III: The breast looks abnormal and is hard and painful.
Treatment of Capsular Contracture
The Aspen After Surgery Treatment can successfully treat Capsular Contracture. The Aspen Rehab Protocol, developed by clinician Tim Weyant, is the only patented, researched, and non-invasive therapeutic technique to successfully treat capsular contracture. Research on the Aspen Protocol shows that 90% of patients achieve improvement to a within normal limit of softness and shape. By utilizing the Aspen Protocol, you will bring back the shape and softness of the breast as well as the symmetry.
The Aspen Rehab Method requires 10 treatments when used for an already existing capsule, or when used for prevention of the complication, 5 treatments are necessary. The Aspen Treatment involves a series of painless soundwaves which are administered over your breast. The soundwaves are followed by specific implant massages as well as pocket expansion techniques. Lastly, you are fitted with a compression garment to assist in the adjustment of the hard or high breast implant.
Before & After
The Aspen After Surgery Treatment is exclusive to licensed Aspen Centers that address issues following breast augmentation. Aspen After Surgery, located in Coral Springs, Florida is a post-plastic surgery treatment facility that specializes in the Aspen Method, a non-surgical treatment for capsular contracture. Contact Aspen After Surgery today if you have any questions regarding the Aspen Protocol.