Breast Implant Removal with En Bloc Capsulectomy Las Vegas

Dr. Brian Parker performs capsulectomies in Las Vegas for women who are experiencing tightening and hardening of their breast implants or other concerns. Capsular contracture and other complications that can arise after having breast implants. When this occurs, many women prefer to have the entire implant and surrounding tissue removed intact.

What is a capsulectomy?

A capsulectomy, also called an en bloc capsulectomy, removes the entire capsule and the breast implant within it at once. The capsule is the scar tissue that forms when any implant or foreign object is put into the body. The capsule can become infected and harden, a condition called capsular contracture, and other issues may arise with breast implants that cause complications. The capsule that encompasses the implants and the implants themselves can be removed as one complete piece, instead of cutting the implants and capsule apart during removal.

Because the breast implant remains intact, no fluids or substances within the capsule or implant come into further contact with the other tissues of your body.

What breast implant concerns may be addressed with a capsulectomy?

A capsulectomy procedure can successfully treat many breast implant concerns, including the following:

Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Capsular contracture
Breast pain

Breast implant folding, shifting, or rupture
Infection
Buildup of dead tissue
Hardening or tightening of the breasts

Why get a capsulectomy?

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

What BII is and how it is caused are not fully understood. Women with BII have had breast implants and appear to be reacting to something in the implants. This can manifest in a number of ways. Women who suffer from BII require an en bloc capsulectomy to ensure that the contents of the breast implants or the capsule come into to further contact with their body. A capsulectomy procedure ensures this, as measures are taken as a part of this surgery to ensure the implant and capsule are not opened.

Implant Rupture

In the case of implant rupture, a capsulectomy ensures the implant is removed without further opening the capsule or implant. The capsulectomy procedure helps reduce the risk of further exposure of the contents of the implant into the body.

Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma

BIA-ALCL, a non-Hodgkins lymphoma, has been associated with breast implants. If you are experiencing this cancer, the capsule should be removed by en bloc capsulectomy. This helps to ensure cancerous cells are no longer in the body.

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Patient Testimonial

“ I got my implants when I was 25. Prior to that, I had zero health issues. Shortly after, I started noticing that the tip of my ring finger on my right hand would crack and peel. It would come and go, and did that for years. I thought it was from the bars at the gym.

A couple of years later, I went to the doctor because I was gaining weight. I was working out, meal planning, in a deficit—doing all the things. Found out I had Hashimoto's.

Then, after having my second son, my fingertip flared up again, but this time it didn't go away. Instead, it spread across my whole right hand. It stayed flared up for over two years. I went to specialists and a functional medicine doctor to figure out what was going on. Nothing helped.

The week I got my implants out, my skin started flaking off, and by the end of the week, it was smooth. It is much better than before—no cracks, no bleeding.” - Katie R.

What happens during a capsulectomy procedure?

Your capsulectomy procedure will be performed by Dr. Parker, who will carefully remove the entire, intact capsule. This is a meticulous, complex technique that requires a high level of training and precision.

Anesthesia: The procedure begins with anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout surgery.
Incision: Dr. Parker will make an incision, typically along the inframammary fold (breast crease), to access the implant and capsule.
Dissection: The capsule is carefully separated from the surrounding breast tissue to preserve the implant and capsule as one unit.
Removal: The entire capsule and implant are removed together through the incision.
Pathology Evaluation: In many cases, the removed capsule and implant are sent to pathology for analysis, especially if there are concerns such as suspected BIA-ALCL.
Breast Pocket Repair: The breast pocket is cleansed, and if needed, the breast tissue may be reshaped or a breast lift performed to improve contour.
Closure: Finally, the incision is closed with sutures.

Key Considerations for En Bloc Capsulectomy

En bloc capsulectomy is more complex and time-consuming than other breast implant removal techniques
It is particularly relevant for patients with capsular contracture, BIA-ALCL, ruptured implants, or those concerned about breast implant illness
The procedure can be performed with implants placed either under or on top of the pectoralis muscle
Some surgeons may perform it bilaterally (on both breasts) even if only one breast is symptomatic, to ensure symmetry and address potential concerns on both sides
The procedure may be followed by a breast lift or other procedures to address changes in breast shape and skin laxity

Recovery after your capsulectomy

For many women, the recovery period after a capsulectomy is easier it was after their original breast implant surgery. You will be able to go home with a friend or family member to help you after the procedure is complete.

You may feel comfortable returning to sedentary work in several days to a week. The swelling will be the most significant during the first two weeks. It’s important to wear your compression bra during this time to help reduce swelling and to ensure your breasts heal well. Be sure to also sleep on your back or side and get plenty of rest. Do not lift anything over five pounds.

As the swelling fades you may feel recovered as your breasts heal and settle. However, it will take several weeks before you can exercise again, and several months until your breasts fully settle and the very last of the swelling fades away.

Candidates for capsulectomy

Any woman who has had breast implants and is experiencing complications such as breast implant illness, or who desires to have her implants removed, may be a candidate for a capsulectomy. Ideal candidates meet the following qualifications:

Are generally in good health
Have no serious medical conditions
Do not smoke
Are not taking blood-thinning medications (or can safely stop taking them prior to the procedure)
Have realistic expectations of what a capsulectomy can achieve

Why choose Dr. Brian Parker?

Dr. Brian J. Parker is an outstanding plastic surgeon in Las Vegas who is well known for his surgical skills in breast enhancement. His patients trust his expertise and authority in the plastic surgery field, which is widely recognized. Dr. Parker treats each person as a unique individual and understands how important a capsulectomy can be for women suffering from breast implant concerns. He is compassionate and caring and stays with his patients every step of the way so that they feel confident and ultimately walk away fully satisfied with their outcomes. Call today for a consultation about a capsulectomy with Dr. Parker.

FAQs

What is the difference between an en bloc capsulectomy and a total capsulectomy?

An en bloc capsulectomy removes the capsule and implant together as a single unit, while a total capsulectomy removes the capsule in pieces after the implant has been removed.

Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?

Most patients are able to return home the same day after surgery, although more complex cases may require an overnight stay for observation.

Can I have new implants placed at the same time as a capsulectomy?

Yes, in some cases replacement implants can be placed during the same surgery, although this depends on your health, goals, and the condition of your breast tissue.

Are there visible scars after a capsulectomy?

Incisions are usually made in the breast crease to minimize visibility, but like any surgery, scarring is possible. Over time, scars typically fade significantly.

Is a capsulectomy painful?

Patients may experience some discomfort and tightness, especially in the first few days. Pain medication and supportive garments help manage this during recovery.

Will insurance cover a capsulectomy?

Coverage varies. Insurance may provide benefits if the procedure is deemed medically necessary due to complications, but cosmetic removals are usually not covered.

Can both breasts be treated even if only one has problems?

Yes, some surgeons recommend addressing both breasts to ensure symmetry and prevent future issues, especially if one implant is showing complications.

What type of anesthesia is used for this procedure?

Capsulectomies are typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the surgery.

How long will my results last after implant removal?

Results are permanent in terms of implant removal, though natural aging and changes in skin elasticity may affect appearance over time. Additional procedures like a breast lift can help maintain contour.

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702-240-9500

4.7 Stars from 71 Reviews