Case #1477 · Sherman Oaks, CA
Capsular Contracture Treatment
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This patient initially had saline implants placed nearly 20 years ago. She experienced grade 4 capsular contracture in her left breast, while her right implant had bottomed out.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Capsular Contracture Treatment.
- Compression bra continuously for 6 weeks
- Drain removal typically days 5–7
- Scar management at 3 weeks; massage protocol depends on plane
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy when recommended — supports tissue with reduced blood supply
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting on prior scar revision sites
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for scar healing
- SPF 50+ on incisions for 12 months
- Indiba radiofrequency for tissue recovery after capsulectomy
- Laser or microneedling for scar refinement after 3 months
- LED light therapy weekly
Why this approach
The decisions that shaped this surgical plan.
- Unilateral case, the contralateral side was reviewed pre-op for symmetry goals. The technique was selected to match the untreated side in volume, shape, and position.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Stop NSAIDs, aspirin, and high-dose fish oil two weeks before surgery; the surgical team provides a full medication list at the pre-op visit.
- Full nicotine cessation 6 weeks pre- and post-op. This includes vapes and nicotine replacement products; the constriction effect is the same.
- Front-closing clothing only for 3 weeks. Drain holders and supportive surgical bras are issued at discharge.
- A driver is required the day of surgery and a responsible adult should stay with you the first 24 hours.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Light activity, hydration, and elevation. Expect peak swelling between days 3 and 5, then a gradual easing through the end of the week.
- Week 2
Walking distance doubles. Showering rules relax. Compression garments transition to the long-wear schedule.
- Week 4
Most patients back to gym cardio at 50 percent intensity. Scar massage protocol begins. Driving restored if not already.
- Week 6
The "back to normal" week for most patients. Final compression schedule transitions to optional.
- Month 3
Tissue softens, scars begin to fade, and overall shape settles toward final. Scar maturation continues for another 6 months.
“Replacing the implant without addressing the capsule significantly increases recurrence. The capsulectomy is the operation; the implant exchange is the finish.”
Dr. Lisa Cassileth
