To Remove or Not to Remove the Breast Implant Capsule When Removing Breast Implants

Leaving a capsule behind is preferred if it is thin and pliable. If there are calcific components, or silicone granulomatous material, or if the capsule is deforming the breast tissue, then removal of the capsule may be warranted. In general, saline (a relatively innocuous substance) leaking is not going to cause issues as your body will likely absorb this. A number of scientific studies have demonstrated the safety of silicone implants; yet, many patients continue to have anxiety about their use.

On July 24, 2019 the FDA recalled Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants because of the increased risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The data analysis performed by the FDA revealed that the risk of developing BIA-ALCL with Allergan’s implants was nearly 6 times the risk of developing the cancer from textured implants manufactured by other companies. Thus, any concerns for development of this condition should involve removal of all involved tissue.