In Grade 1 and 2, no treatment is needed.  If the implant pocket starts to feel firm and a smooth implant has been used, I recommend implant massage for two minutes a day.  This can help with prevention of scar tissue formation.  However, implant massage is not recommended for patients with textured implants.
With patients who have developed Grade 3 or 4 capsular contracture, surgery or other treatment procedures must be performed. Revision breast surgery is typically recommended.  In most cases, this involves removal of the implant and complete removal of the breast capsule.  Removing the implant without removing the capsule is counterproductive.  In some circumstances, the patient may choose to her implants permanently removed.  Most times, a small mastopexy  or augmentation/mastopexy is necessary if implants are removed and/or replaced.  Viewing before and after photos will help patients better understand the results of these corrective techniques.
After the chosen surgery has been performed, the patient will need to undergo a period of healing and recovery.  This can involve a degree of swelling and bruising.  During this time, it will be important to follow Dr. Pittman’s post-surgical care directions diligently.
It is important to note that once a patient has developed severe capsular contracture, her chances of it recurring are doubled.  So at 10 years, her chance of having another contracture is close to 50%.  There are certain things that can be done to help prevent it from happening again:
Changing from a smooth to textured implant
Changing the implant position, if it was on top of the muscle to under the muscle
Use of some type of Acellular Dermal Matrix
It is also important to note that implants that are too large for the patient out stress on the breast gland and can lead to a capsular contracture.  Many times, I recommend downsizing to a smaller implant in revision surgery.