Capsular contracture, a potential complication following breast augmentation or reconstruction, involves the formation of scar tissue around the implant. This hardening can lead to discomfort, distortion of the breast shape, and in some cases, necessitate further surgical intervention. Strategies to mitigate the risk of this complication are multifaceted and begin with careful patient selection, surgical technique, and postoperative management.
Minimizing the incidence of capsular contracture yields several key advantages. It reduces the likelihood of revision surgery, thereby lowering patient morbidity and healthcare costs. Aesthetically pleasing and naturally feeling results are more consistently achieved, leading to greater patient satisfaction and improved quality of life. Historically, the development of textured implants and modifications to surgical approaches have been driven by the desire to minimize this complication.