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Should you have ‘En Bloc’ Removal of your Breast Implant?
There has been a growing concern among women in the UK who have breast implants about textured implants and their potential link to Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Additionally, some women may experience symptoms of Breast Implant Illness (BII), which can include chronic fatigue, joint pain, and other health issues.
For women who wish to have their breast implants removed, there are several surgical options available. One of these options is the En-Bloc technique, which involves removing the entire capsule that surrounds the implant in one piece. This technique can be particularly useful in cases where the implant is textured, as it helps to minimise the risk of any remaining implant material or capsule fragments that can cause complications.
Another option is a partial capsulectomy, where only a portion of the capsule is removed. This technique may be suitable for patients who have smooth implants or in cases where the capsule is not too thick or calcified.
Total capsulectomy involves the removal of the entire capsule and can be combined with implant removal or replacement. This technique can be effective in cases where there is a significant amount of capsule calcification or when the implant is ruptured.
What causes Implant Capsule Formation?
Capsular formation is a natural response of the body to foreign objects such as breast implants. When a breast implant is inserted, the body’s immune system identifies it as a foreign object and begins to create a protective layer of tissue around it. This tissue is known as the capsule.
The capsule is a fibrous tissue that forms around the breast implant, which serves as a natural barrier between the implant and the surrounding tissue. The capsule’s thickness and density can vary from patient to patient and can be affected by various factors, including the type of implant used, surgical technique, and individual healing responses.
Capsular contracture occurs when the capsule around the implant becomes thick, hard, and tight. This can cause the breast implant to feel hard, distorted, or uncomfortable. Capsular contracture can also cause pain and other complications, and may require surgical intervention to correct.
RELATED: Do I have capsular contracture and can I treat it?
Capsular calcification is another possible complication, which occurs when calcium deposits form in the capsule around the implant. This can lead to a hard, lumpy texture or even rupture of the implant. Capsular calcification may require the removal of the implant and the capsule to prevent further complications.
What is En Bloc Breast Implant Removal?
En Bloc breast implant removal is a surgical technique that involves removing the entire breast implant, along with the surrounding capsule of fibrous scar tissue, in one piece. The capsule is removed intact, with the implant still inside, without opening it, to minimise any potential contamination of the surrounding tissues.
The En Bloc technique is used in cases where there are concerns about the implant’s safety or when the patient has developed complications such as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) or capsular contracture. It is also used in cases where the patient is experiencing Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms or where there is concern about the integrity of the implant.
The En Bloc technique involves a more complex surgical procedure than standard implant removal, and it requires an experienced plastic surgeon who is skilled in the technique. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully removes the implant and capsule intact and checks for any signs of damage or rupture. If any damage or rupture is found, the surgeon may need to perform additional procedures to remove any remaining implant material or capsule fragments.
En Bloc breast implant removal can be performed as a standalone procedure or combined with other breast surgery, such as a breast lift or breast reduction. It is essential to discuss the options with a qualified plastic surgeon and carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before undergoing En Bloc breast implant removal.
What are the results of En Bloc Technique Breast Implant Removal?
The results of En Bloc Technique Breast Implant Removal can vary depending on the patient’s individual circumstances, such as the type of implants, the length of time they have had them, and any complications they may have experienced.
The primary goal of the En Bloc Technique is to remove the entire breast implant and the surrounding capsule in one piece. This can help to minimize the risk of any implant material or capsule fragments remaining in the body, which can cause complications such as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) or capsular contracture.
After the En Bloc Technique, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. They may need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help with swelling and support the breasts. Recovery time can vary depending on the patient’s individual circumstances, but most patients can return to work and other normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.
RELATED: Recovery After Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Removing the breast implants and the capsule can result in a change in breast size and shape. In some cases, patients may require additional breast surgery, such as a breast lift or breast reduction, to achieve their desired results. A skilled plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery can provide advice and guidance on the most appropriate options based on the patient’s individual needs and goals.
RELATED: Breast Implant Removal FAQs – Q&A about Explant Surgery
En Bloc Removal and concerns about BIA-ALCL
It is understandable that some patients with textured breast implants may be concerned about the risk of developing Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). BIA-ALCL is a rare form of lymphoma that has been linked to textured breast implants, and while the risk of developing this condition is low, some patients may still choose to have their implants and capsules removed to alleviate their concerns.
En Bloc Removal is a surgical technique that can be used to remove the entire implant and capsule intact, which can be beneficial for patients concerned about BIA-ALCL. During this procedure, the surgeon removes the implant and capsule as a single unit, reducing the risk of contamination and minimizing the risk of leaving any capsule fragments behind that can lead to complications.
It’s important to note that the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is significantly lower than the risk of developing breast cancer, and the risk varies between different brands of implants. Additionally, patients having their capsule removed typically have their tissues tested for BIA-ALCL to ensure that they do not have the condition.
The texture on the outer side of the implant has been linked to the development of BIA-ALCL, and it’s thought that the formation of biofilm on textured implants may contribute to the condition’s development. As such, some patients may choose to have their textured implants removed to reduce the risk of developing BIA-ALCL.
Patients who are concerned about the safety of their breast implants should discuss their options with a qualified plastic surgeon. The surgeon can provide advice and guidance on the most appropriate options based on the patient’s individual needs and goals.
Why Centre for Surgery chooses Mentor Implants
Centre for Surgery chooses Mentor implants because they have a proven track record of safety and efficacy. Mentor is a leading manufacturer of breast implants, and their products are widely used in breast augmentation surgery worldwide.
RELATED: 3 breast implant safety considerations to know about
Mentor Siltex implants have a micro-textured surface, which has been shown to reduce the risk of complications such as capsular contracture while providing a more natural look and feel to the breast. The micro-textured surface of Mentor implants is seen by the body as a smooth surface, which reduces the risk of the formation of biofilm and the potential for BIA-ALCL.
It’s important to note that the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is extremely low, and there have been no reported cases of the condition in patients who have only had smooth breast implants. However, Mentor implants are designed to minimise the risk of complications and provide patients with safe, effective, and natural-looking results.
At Centre for Surgery, patient safety is a top priority, and the use of Mentor implants is just one example of our commitment to providing patients with the highest standards of care. Patients can be assured that all surgical procedures, including breast augmentation surgery, are performed by qualified and experienced plastic surgeons using the latest techniques and technology to ensure optimal outcomes.
