Grades !!link!! - Capsular Contracture

Developed by Dr. James Baker, this system categorizes capsular contracture into four distinct grades based on the look and feel of the breast. It is the gold standard used by surgeons worldwide.

The approach to treatment depends heavily on the Baker Grade: capsular contracture grades

| Grade | Clinical Name | Physical Findings | Patient Sensation & Cosmetic Outcome | Palpation Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Normal / Soft | Breast feels naturally soft. Implant is not palpable (cannot be felt distinctly). | No pain or distortion. Appearance is natural. | The capsule is thin and elastic, similar to a natural breast. | | II | Minimal / Firm | Breast feels slightly firm. Implant is palpable but not visibly distorted. | Usually asymptomatic. Patient may notice the breast is "firmer" than the other. | Mild thickening of the capsule; implant edges may be felt. | | III | Moderate / Abnormal Firmness | Breast is distinctly firm to hard. Implant is palpable and visible distortion (e.g., roundness, upper pole fullness) is present. | Often uncomfortable but not necessarily painful. Visible deformity is the hallmark. | The capsule is thick and non-compliant. Implant does not move easily. | | IV | Severe / Hard | Breast is hard, cold, and often tender. Gross distortion (e.g., implant riding high, visible rippling, asymmetry) is evident. | Pain, tenderness, and significant cosmetic deformity. May interfere with mammography. | Rock-hard consistency; implant is immobile. | Developed by Dr

| Grade | Look (Appearance) | Feel (Consistency) | Symptoms | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Normal | Soft | None | | Grade II | Normal | Firm | None (asymptomatic) | | Grade III | Abnormal (Round/Distorted) | Firm | Possible discomfort; aesthetic concern | | Grade IV | Abnormal (Distorted) | Hard | Pain and tenderness | The approach to treatment depends heavily on the