April 2026
Capsular contracture (CC) remains a leading cause for reoperation after breast reconstruction.
Why this matters
Capsular contracture (CC) remains a leading cause for reoperation after breast reconstruction. This work contributes to evidence-based plastic and reconstructive surgery — helping clinicians interpret outcomes, refine technique, and counsel patients with clearer data.
Author
Plastic and reconstructive surgery resident at Emory University (UCLA BS, USC MD) with an h-index of 15 and peer-reviewed work spanning aesthetic surgery, reconstruction, medical devices, and AI in medicine.
Abstract
Capsular contracture (CC) remains a leading cause for reoperation after breast reconstruction. The cause of CC is likely multifactorial, and there are many working theories in the current peer-reviewed literature related to causes. There are several modifiable risk factors for CC as well. Techniques such as capsulotomy and capsulectomy are employed, with capsulotomy often preferred for its shorter duration and quicker recovery, especially in cases with thinner capsules. Although capsulectomy is the gold standard, it poses greater risks. Despite potential improvements in esthetics and quality of life, reoperations carry risks of complications, including bleeding and further distortion of breast architecture.