Capsular Contracture After Postmastectomy Radiation in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: Effect of Implant Pocket and Two-Stage Surgery

Capsular contracture (CC) is a concerning issue for individuals undergoing postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) with implant-based breast reconstruction. This study investigated whether the extent of CC and implant migration differs based on implant placement and the reconstruction stage. Insertion plane and stage of breast implants were investigated, and the presence and severe cases of CC and implant migration were analyzed. Among 195 participants, 83 were in the pre-pectoral group, and 112 were in the sub-pectoral group. Two-staged surgery was performed on 116 patients, while 79 underwent direct-to-implant (DTI). Notably, The occurrence of CC (prepectoral, 17 [20.48%] and subpectoral, 42 [37.50%]; = 0.011), CC severity (prepectoral, 4 [4.82%] and subpectoral, 17 [15.17%]; = 0.021), and implant upward migration (prepectoral, 15 [18.07%] and subpectoral, 38 [33.92%]; = 0.014) significantly varied between the two groups. The incidence of CC was more common in the DTI group (odds ratio [OR], 2.283; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.164-4.478). Furthermore, subpectoral placement was an independent risk factor for occurrence (OR, 2.989; 95% CI, 1.476-6.054) and severity of CC (OR, 38.552; 95% CI, 1.855-801.186) and upward implant migration (OR, 2.531; 95% CI, 1.263-5.071). Our findings suggest that pre-pectoral reconstruction and the two-stage operation benefit patients who may undergo PMRT. These approaches can help reduce the incidence of CC and abnormal implant migration following radiation, leading to improved aesthetic outcomes and greater patient satisfaction.