Total Capsulectomy in San Antonio

Are you considering breast implant removal and want to better understand the total capsulectomy technique? At San Antonio Breast Implant Removal, we’re here to guide you through your options and help you feel confident in your next step.

Removing breast implants marks a significant step toward feeling better physically and emotionally for many women. Some seek relief from discomfort, while others feel that their implants no longer align with their lifestyle or goals.

Total capsulectomy is one approach our surgeon may recommend to support that change.

At San Antonio Breast Implant Removal, we carefully evaluate each patient to determine if this technique provides the safest and most complete option for their needs.

What Is Total Capsulectomy?

Total capsulectomy involves removing the entire scar tissue capsule that naturally forms around a breast implant. Our surgeon removes the implant first, then carefully dissects and removes all remaining capsule tissue from the chest wall and surrounding structures.

This approach allows for complete capsule removal, even when the implant and capsule cannot come out together in one piece. It gives our surgeon more flexibility to safely navigate areas where the capsule may be tightly adhered to muscle, bone, or connective tissue.

We often consider total capsulectomy when:

  • Removing the capsule in one piece is not safe: If the capsule is tightly adhered to ribs, muscle, or vital structures, we may need to remove it in sections.
  • The implant needs to come out first to protect nearby tissue: Taking the implant out before removing the capsule gives our us better visibility and control.
  • The capsule is irregular or fragmented: In some cases, removing the capsule separately ensures no sections are missed.
  • A complete but flexible approach is needed: Total capsulectomy allows for full capsule removal without the added complexity or risk of trying to preserve it as one intact unit.

Our goal is to choose the method that allows for safe, complete removal while respecting the structure of your chest and your long-term health. We’ll explain every option clearly and help you understand what to expect from total capsulectomy.

Total Capsulectomy San Antonio

How Total Capsulectomy Compares to Other Techniques

We choose the right implant removal method based on your anatomy, implant history, and overall goals. Total capsulectomy is one of several techniques that allow for safe and effective removal. Here’s how it compares to the others:

Total Capsulectomy

This technique removes the entire capsule, but not necessarily with the implant inside it. It is often used when full capsule removal is important for healing or symptom relief.

Standard Explant

A standard explant technique removes only the implant, leaving the capsule behind. We may use it when the capsule is soft, healthy, and unlikely to cause symptoms or complications.

Partial Capsulectomy

This removes only part of the capsule, usually the portion that is most accessible or problematic. It may be appropriate when the capsule is stable and full removal is not medically necessary.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

The en bloc method removes the implant and capsule as one intact unit without opening the capsule. We use en bloc when containment is critical, such as with silicone leakage or highly compromised capsules.

Benefits of the Total Technique

We focus on selecting the surgical technique that best supports your health, both now and in the future. Total capsulectomy offers key benefits in situations where complete capsule removal is important, but en bloc is not the safest option.

  • Full Capsule Removal: Allows our surgeon to carefully remove all capsule tissue, even when it’s tightly adhered to the chest wall or muscle.
  • Improved Access and Visibility: Separating the implant from the capsule gives us greater control and protects surrounding structures.
  • Reduced Risk During Surgery: This approach avoids the stress of forcing an intact removal when it could harm nearby tissue.
  • Thorough Cleanout: Total capsulectomy ensures that no residual capsule remains, which may support clearer healing and reduce future complications.

By providing a complete but flexible implant removal, total capsulectomy helps us balance safety with the goal of fully addressing the capsule.

Total Capsulectomy Surgery

What to Expect During Surgery

If our surgeon determines that total capsulectomy is the right approach for your implant removal, we’ll walk you through every detail so you feel fully prepared. This procedure allows us to remove the entire capsule with precision.

Step 1

Anesthesia

We use local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on what best supports your comfort and surgical plan. Our surgeon will explain the recommendation clearly before your procedure.

Step 2

Incisions

We often use your original augmentation incision to reduce visible scarring. If a different incision is required, we place it carefully to allow access while keeping it as discreet as possible.

Step 3

Removal

Our surgeon removes the implant first, then carefully separates and removes the capsule in full. This step-by-step process helps protect nearby structures and allows for complete capsule removal even in complex cases.

Step 4

Inspection

We inspect the pocket for residual capsule tissue, fluid, or debris that could affect healing. Once cleared, we irrigate the area with sterile solution to create a clean environment for recovery.

Step 5

Drains

We place small surgical drains to reduce the risk of fluid buildup after surgery. These drains are temporary and usually come out within a few days, depending on your healing.

Step 6

Sutures

We use internal sutures to support the deeper tissue layers. Our team places external stitches with care to encourage smooth healing and minimize scarring.

Recovery After Total Capsulectomy

Recovering from total capsulectomy takes time, but most patients feel well supported throughout the process. Since this procedure involves removing the full capsule, your body may need a little extra time to adjust and heal fully.

You’ll go home with detailed instructions and a clear plan for follow-up care. Here’s what you can typically expect in the first stages of recovery:

  • Post-Op Discomfort: You may feel pressure or soreness in the chest, but medication helps manage it effectively.
  • Swelling and Tenderness: These symptoms are most noticeable during the first week and gradually improve over time.
  • Compression Support: We’ll fit you with a post-surgical bra that reduces swelling and supports healing tissue.
  • Drains and Care: If we place drains, we’ll show you exactly how to care for them and let you know when they can be removed.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: We’ll schedule follow-up visits to check your healing and answer any questions as your body recovers.

Many patients return to desk work or light activity within one to two weeks, depending on how they feel. We’ll guide you through the process at every step so you never have to guess what comes next.

More Surgical Options

If you’re planning total capsulectomy, you may also want to explore options that restore or refine your breast shape. During your consultation, we will discuss these choices together to find the approach that feels right for your goals and your body.

Breast Implant Exchange San Antonio

Implant Revision

Some women choose to replace their old implants with new ones that better suit their current goals. This may include changes in size, type, or placement to better match your desired results.

Breast Implant Removal with Lift San Antonio

Removal & Breast Lift

A breast lift removes excess skin and tightens the tissue to improve shape and support after implant removal. It helps address sagging or volume loss that occurs when implants are taken out.

Breast Implant Removal with Fat Transfer San Antonio

Removal & Fat Transfer

Fat transfer uses liposuction to collect fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs and place it into the breasts. This adds subtle volume using your own tissue and avoids the need for implants.

Implant Removal FAQs

If you’re considering total capsulectomy in San Antonio, you probably have questions about how the procedure works and what makes it different from other options. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from patients:

Take the Next Step

At San Antonio Breast Implant Removal, we recognize that breast implant removal is a deeply personal choice. Our team provides honest guidance, clear communication, and expert care in an environment where your comfort and confidence come first.

Our surgeon approaches every procedure with precision and flexibility, adapting the technique to fit your anatomy, health history, and goals. Total capsulectomy is one of several trusted methods we offer when full capsule removal is the safest path forward.

If you’re exploring your options, we’re here to help you make informed decisions without pressure. Together, we’ll create a surgical plan that aligns with your needs and supports your long-term well-being.

Schedule your implant removal consultation and take the next step toward clarity, confidence, and care you can trust.

Why Choose San Antonio Breast Implant Removal?

At San Antonio Breast Implant Removal, we provide expert, personalized care from your first consultation through recovery. Whether you’re local to San Antonio or traveling in, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

We focus on breast implant removal procedures, including techniques like en bloc capsulectomy, total capsulectomy, and customized combination surgeries. Our goal is to help you achieve a result that feels right for your body and your health.

Do you have questions or are you ready to book your in-person or virtual consultation? Contact San Antonio Breast Implant Removal. We’re here to help!

San Antonio Breast Implant Removal
4083 De Zavala Rd
San Antonio, TX 78249
(210) 361-8825