Capsule: Friend or Foe Thursday, October 9 Thu, Oct 9 5:00-6:00 p.m. CDT

Capsular contracture remains a significant challenge in both aesthetic and reconstructive breast implant surgery. This session will explore the pathophysiology and clinical grading of capsular formation and contracture, emphasizing its impact on surgical outcomes. Faculty will examine the evidence-based role of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) and emerging technologies like poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) bioresorbable scaffolds in prevention and management strategies. Attendees will gain insights into surgical techniques aimed at minimizing capsule formation, including device selection and pocket management, and review current best practices for capsule handling during implant revision procedures. Comparative data on low capsule-forming devices and their long-term clinical performance will also be discussed.

Upon completion of this learning activity, participants should be able to:

1. Describe the pathophysiology and clinical classification of capsular formation and contracture in breast implant surgery and its impact on reconstructive and aesthetic outcomes.
2. Evaluate the clinical utility of acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) for preventing and managing capsular contracture using real-world and evidence-based data.
3. Explain the mechanisms, benefits, limitations, and indications of poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) bioresorbable scaffolds in breast surgery.
4. Identify surgical approaches and device selection strategies that promote minimal or “no capsule” outcomes, with attention to pocket management techniques.
5. Summarize best practices for capsule management in implant revision surgery, including histopathologic indications for capsule submission.
6. Compare low capsule-forming devices in terms of design features, clinical outcomes, and long-term efficacy.