Capsular contacture is the most common complication associated with breast implant surgery. This is where the membrane, which grows around all implants and normally can't be seen or felt, behaves like 'shrink wrap'. This compresses the implant, causing it to feel firm or hard and often distorting its shape. Capsular contracture is the biggest cause of patient dissatisfication and the need for further surgery. Evidence submitted to the regulatory authority in the United States, the FDA, showed that within 7 years of breast implant surgery around 16% of patients had develped capsular contracture with both smooth and textured surfaced implants. To correct this, further surgery is needed. (source http://www.allergan.com/assets/pdf/m1209 02_silicone_aug_label.pdf)
Are they new?
This type of implant is not new. They were first used in 1968 and there is more than 40 years of data showing that these implants are safe. Since 1970 there have been more than 100 papers and articles published in learned journels around the world about the use of these implants. These papers have confirmed their safety and reduced rate of capsular contracture.
How do they work
When the Brazilian implants are used in breast implant surgery, the foam covering becomes part of the capsule. It acts as a scaffolding or lattice, which the collagen fibre (that makes up the capsule) wrap themselves around. They are stabilised and no longer lined up end on end, as seen in the capsules of smooth and textured implants. The fibres are unable to slide over one another so the capsule is much less likely to contract like shrink wrap.
Can these implants move?
The unique surface of the polyurethane foam-covered implant grips to the capsule like velcro, reducing the risk of displacement and rotation. In fact, these implants are guaranteed not to rotate which means the option of teardrop shaped implants can be chosen without the fear of rotation.
