Hello - on 5/26 I had an explant surgery with a lift, my capsule was not removed. On my right breast I have a heavy feeling when sitting, standing, bending or reaching. The doctor said my capsule was thin and have had minimal swelling. Is this feeling normal? Could the capsule be the cause although it was reportedly thin? If I had bia-alcl could the doctor have seen it when performing the surgery?
Thank you for sharing your question. I would have your surgeon evaluate you for a fluid collection to ensure you are healing well and without issues. It is unlikely that the capsule alone would give you these feelings.
BIA-ALCL is not that common, but when present it is associated with previously placed textured implants (McGhan, Inamed or Allergan - all one in the same). When explanting one doesn’t see the cancer, however, I have seen fluid accumulation within the capsule, which leads me to culture and send tissue & fluid for pathological evaluation. However, with the history of textured implants, even if no fluid is seen, I take random biopsies of the capsule.
Removing the capsule (capsulectomy) is not recommended, though, by the FDA because of the significant rate of complications (fluid accumulation, internal bleeding, infection, etc). A thick capsule (contracture) could result in some symptoms, but thin capsules are unlikely to give the symptom that you are describing.
I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon at this point.