Do silicone gel implants with a willow-leaf shape cause contracture?
Disease description:
I have recently been considering breast augmentation surgery and am interested in leaf-shaped silicone implants. However, I have seen some information online stating that silicone implants can cause contracture. I would like to ask the doctor, is it true that leaf-shaped silicone implants can really cause contracture after implantation?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu
Compared to traditional L-shaped silicone implants, willow-leaf-shaped silicone implants may also develop contracture, but the likelihood is lower.
Willow-leaf-shaped silicone implants are a commonly used type of implant in plastic surgery today. Due to their shape being more consistent with natural body curves, they are widely favored in breast augmentation procedures. However, capsular contracture—fibrous tissue proliferation and thickening around the implant leading to breast hardening, pain, or even deformity—can occur with any type of implanted implant. Capsular contracture is associated with multiple factors, including individual physiology, surgical technique, implant type, and size.
Willow-leaf-shaped implants do not reach the nasal tip, thereby reducing the chance of stimulating capsule formation and contracture. Additionally, most surgeons use a combination of willow-leaf-shaped implants and autologous cartilage in comprehensive rhinoplasty procedures, which can achieve ideal nasal contouring while reducing the risk of contracture.
To reduce the risk of complications such as contracture, it is recommended to choose a reputable public hospital and have the surgery performed by an experienced surgeon. Postoperatively, proper nasal care is important; avoid rubbing or pressing the nose within a short period, and keep the wound dry to prevent infection.
