Recurrent Capsular Contracture: Are There Other Breast Implant Options?
For some women, breast implant surgery does not end with the first operation. Capsular contracture can develop when the scar tissue around an implant tightens, causing the breast to become firm, painful or distorted.
When capsular contracture returns after surgery, the experience can be frustrating. Having to undergo another operation is not something any patient wants.
But if you are facing recurrent capsular contracture, have you been told about all the available implant options?
Microthane®: An Alternative Worth Discussing
Microthane® is a specialised polyurethane foam coating used on certain breast implants manufactured by POLYTECH in Germany.
Unlike conventional smooth or textured implants, Microthane has a surface designed to encourage tissue integration around the implant. Clinical evidence suggests that polyurethane-coated implants may offer advantages in reducing capsular contracture.
For patients who have experienced recurrent capsular contracture, this is an option worth discussing with a surgeon experienced in revision breast implant surgery.
However, no implant can guarantee that capsular contracture will never return. The most appropriate choice depends on your medical history, the cause of recurrence and your surgeon's assessment.
Has Your Surgeon Used Microthane Before?
This is an important question.
Microthane is a specialised implant, and not every plastic surgeon has hands-on experience using it. Some surgeons may have used it in their practice, while others may have little or no direct clinical experience with this particular implant.
If your surgeon advises against Microthane, it is reasonable to ask:
“Doctor, have you used Microthane implants before? Do you have actual clinical experience with them?”
There is a difference between assessing an implant based on direct clinical experience and assessing one that you have never used.
A surgeon may have sound reasons for recommending another implant. However, if they have never used Microthane, their recommendation may not be based on personal experience with this particular implant.
This does not mean their advice is necessarily wrong. It means you should understand the basis for that advice before making your decision.
Are You Being Offered All the Available Options?
When a hospital or surgeon routinely uses only certain implant brands, other options may not form part of the usual discussion.
This does not automatically mean the recommended implant is unsuitable. But patients should be able to ask about alternatives, particularly when they have already experienced complications and are considering another operation.
If you have recurrent capsular contracture, consider asking:
Could Microthane be suitable for my situation?
What are its potential benefits and disadvantages compared with other implants?
What experience do you (the surgeon) have with this type of implant?
What other factors might be contributing to my recurrent capsular contracture?
If you feel that your options have not been fully explored, a second opinion from a surgeon experienced in revision breast implant surgery may be worthwhile.
Sometimes, the limitation is not the availability of an implant option, but whether the surgeon you consult has experience with it.
Before You Decide on Another Operation
You do not have to choose Microthane. It may not be appropriate for every patient.
But if you have experienced recurrent capsular contracture, you deserve to know that alternative implant options exist and have the opportunity to discuss them with an appropriately experienced surgeon.
The next operation is an important decision. Take the time to understand your options before proceeding.
Want to Know More About Microthane?
POLYTECH Microthane breast implants are available in Malaysia through Alpha Health.
For more information, contact Alpha Health:
WhatsApp: 011 1286 8768
This article is intended for patient education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Implant selection and revision surgery should be based on individual clinical assessment and an informed discussion of the benefits, risks and alternatives.
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