In April I tore some scar tissue when doing pull-ups resulting in one breast drooping more then the other. I saw my doc right away who advised a bra to see if tissue would repair its self. No changes. I was informed I have soft capsules and a capsulorrphy was suggested as well as lowering both breasts. What exactly does soft capsules mean and long term effects if no revision?
A capsule is a lining that forms around a foreign object whether it's a breast implant, pacemaker, etc. It is semitransparent like wax paper and usually thin, but can be very tough. Every implant gets a capsule. Sometimes the capsule will contract and squeeze on the implant resulting in a firm and sometimes distorted breast. There are ways of grading the degree of contracture of the capsule and firmness of the breast. I'm guessing that your surgeon is describing the softness of your breast and describes it as a soft capsule. If you do nothing the breasts can remain the same and the tear in the capsule will repair itself and maybe the breast will return to its original shape. If you don't like the way the breasts look, the operation will depend on which breast looks more natural. I hope this helps.
Thanks for your question. Anytime any type of implant is inserted into the human body, the body produces a capsule around the implant as a protective measure. A soft capsule is actually a good thing. Sometimes when the capsules become too thick, it can deform the appearance of the breast and cause pain. This is called capsular contracture. If you do not like the appearance of your breasts you can visit your plastic surgeon to see what options you have for revision. Long term, chances are that your capsules will remain soft, however, there is always a chance that in the future you can develop capsular contracture.
Best wishes!
Thank you for sharing your question. The scar tissue that forms around all implants can be of variable thickness with saline implants typically having very thin ones. This tissue, when thin, offers poor results for a capsulorrhaphy and use of a synthetic substitute is often useful to reinforce the repair. Without a revision the implant malposition/displacement will worsen over time.
A soft capsule means the lining which the body always forms around an implant is soft and pliable as opposed to hard and contracted. Soft capsules are preferred. Sounds as if your surgeon wants to see how you heal before committing to a revision.
A capsule is the area around the implant that the body creates after the implants are inserted. A soft capsule is what is desired. The Capsulorrhaphy is the surgical repair of the tear. I would suggest another visit with your physician to get a better idea of what your options are. If he uses terms you do not understand, please ask him to clarify. Many times we get too consumed in "doctor verbiage" and forget that not everyone speaks our surgical language. Best of luck to you.