Clinical Research Study Now Enrolling in Reno–Tahoe: Capsular Contracture and Breast Implants

Reno Tahoe Plastic Surgery, under the direction of board-certified plastic surgeons Tiffany McCormack, MD and Nicole Joslyn, MD, is currently enrolling qualified participants for a clinical research study focused on the surgical management of capsular contracture in patients with breast implants.

This study is open to individuals in Reno, Lake Tahoe, and surrounding communities who may be experiencing symptoms associated with capsular contracture and are already considering revision breast implant surgery.

The goal of this article is to provide clear, factual information about the study so interested individuals can better understand the research and determine whether they want to learn more about potential participation.

• Understanding Capsular Contracture
• Clinical Research Study Overview
• Participant Eligibility
• What Does Participation Entail?
• Costs & Compensation
• The Role of Clinical Research in Plastic Surgery
• Study Relevance for Reno and Lake Tahoe Patients
• Additional Information

Understanding Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a recognized complication that can occur after breast augmentation or breast reconstruction with implants. Whenever a breast implant is placed, the body naturally forms a thin layer of scar tissue around the implant known as a capsule. In most cases, this capsule remains soft and does not cause symptoms.

In some patients, however, the capsule may gradually tighten, thicken, or harden over time. When this occurs, it is referred to as capsular contracture.

The condition can affect the feel, appearance, and comfort of the breasts and may vary in severity. While some individuals experience mild firmness, others may notice more significant changes.

Common symptoms of capsular contracture may include:

• Increased firmness of the breast
• Visible distortion or asymmetry
• Changes in breast shape or position
• Discomfort or pain
• Tightness around the implant

Capsular contracture can develop months or even years after the initial breast implant procedure. In some cases, patients who have previously undergone surgery to correct capsular contracture may experience recurrence.

For individuals experiencing symptoms that affect comfort or appearance, revision breast surgery may be considered.

About the Clinical Research Study

Reno Tahoe Plastic Surgery is participating in a clinical research study designed to evaluate outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for capsular contracture.

The study is investigating whether the placement of a specific surgical mesh material around the breast implant during revision surgery may influence recurrence rates of capsular contracture.

The material being evaluated in this study is a bioresorbable mesh indicated for use in certain soft tissue support applications.

During surgery, participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups according to the study protocol:

• One group will receive the mesh material placed around the implant
• The other group will undergo surgery without placement of the mesh

This process is known as randomization, which means assignment is determined by the study design rather than by the patient or surgeon.

The purpose of this research is to compare outcomes between these two surgical approaches. The study does not guarantee specific results, and no claims are being made regarding the effectiveness or long-term outcomes of the treatment being evaluated.

Who May Be Eligible to Participate?

Individuals may be eligible to participate in the study if they:

• Currently have breast implants
• Are experiencing symptoms consistent with capsular contracture
• Are considering revision breast implant surgery

Both first-time cases of capsular contracture and recurrent cases may be considered during the screening process.

You do not need to be an existing patient of Reno Tahoe Plastic Surgery to be evaluated for potential participation.

Final eligibility is determined through a formal screening process based on the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria.

What Participation in the Study Involves

Individuals who qualify and choose to participate will undergo revision breast implant surgery according to the study protocol.

Participation generally includes:

• Surgical correction of capsular contracture
• Random assignment to one of the study groups during breast surgery
• Follow-up visits as required by the study protocol

The research team will review all aspects of the study with potential participants during the informed consent process, including surgical details, follow-up requirements, and any procedures associated with the study.

Participation in clinical research is always voluntary, and individuals may choose whether or not to take part.

Costs and Compensation

The clinical study covers certain research-related procedures as defined by the study protocol. During the screening and consent process, the research team will clearly explain which aspects of care may be covered by the study and which may not.

Participants may also receive compensation for participation according to study guidelines. Compensation details will be reviewed prior to enrollment.

It is important to note that compensation is not contingent upon surgical outcomes or specific results.

The Role of Clinical Research in Plastic Surgery

Clinical research plays an important role in advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care. Studies conducted under regulated protocols allow plastic surgeons and researchers to evaluate surgical techniques, materials, and outcomes in a structured and monitored environment.

Research in plastic surgery helps physicians better understand how different approaches may affect patient experiences, complication rates, and long-term outcomes.

Clinical studies are conducted under Institutional Review Board (IRB) oversight, which ensures that ethical standards, patient safety measures, and regulatory requirements are followed throughout the research process.

All advertising materials, study procedures, and patient communications related to the study must also be reviewed and approved by the IRB.

Why This Study May Be Relevant for Patients in Reno and Lake Tahoe

Breast augmentation and breast revision surgery are common procedures throughout Reno, Lake Tahoe, and Northern Nevada. Capsular contracture remains one of the more widely recognized reasons patients may seek revision surgery.

For individuals in the Reno–Tahoe region who are already considering corrective surgery for capsular contracture, participation in a clinical research study may be an option worth exploring.

Clinical research is not the right choice for everyone. However, for some patients, participation may provide structured follow-up care while contributing to research that could help inform future surgical approaches.

Learn More About the Study

Individuals in Reno, Lake Tahoe, or nearby communities who are experiencing symptoms of capsular contracture may contact Reno Tahoe Plastic Surgery to learn more about the clinical research study and determine whether they may be eligible for screening.

The research team can provide detailed information about:

• Study eligibility criteria
• The surgical protocol used in the study
• Covered costs and research-related procedures
• Follow-up requirements
• Participant compensation

Participation in the study is entirely voluntary. Choosing not to participate will not affect your ability to pursue standard treatment options or surgical care.

Our friendly team at Reno Tahoe Plastic Surgery would be happy to speak with you about study participation and answer any questions or concerns you may have. For more information, please contact our Reno practice today to learn more.