Breast Implants: Q&A

Ask a Question

On Jan.3 I Had Bilateral Implants with Alloderm. I'm Experiencing a Very Uncomfotable Stiffness Across my Ribs

Spans from one side to the the other as if I have a very tight under wire bra sewn into my chest. Will this go away? Is this the result of alloderm? My PS wants to see me in two months, but I cannot make it that long with this discomfort. Suggestions or information please?

Tags:

pain female

Comment on this

6 Doctor Answers | Asked by Brittain45 in Richmond, VA

Doctor Answers (6)
Community Comments (0)

Alloderm issues

Alloderm is a standard product used in breast reconstruction with tissue expanders or immediate breast implants. If immediate implants were used, there may be more initial swelling of the skin and soft tissue of the breast because there is less "potential space" compared to the placement of a decompressed tissue expander. The Alloderm is usually sewn along the fold under the breast internally, and then to the pectoralis major (chest) muscle. When your muscle moves, it may pull... more

Tightness across chest with Alloderm breast reconstruction

I would call to schedule an earlier appointment. The tightness may be due to the inflexibility of the Alloderm. This will likely resolve as the material becomes incorporated but it may take closer to 9 months.

Chest wall pain afterAlloderm

Because the material needs to be secured along the lower pole of the breasts with stitches near the ribs, there is pain and tightness from that. This is necessary and normal and will resolve on it's own over time. See your doctor sooner though for reassurance and to be sure all is okay.

You might also like...

Real Stories

Excited but Nervous at the Same Time - Houston, TX

Hi ladies I'm 25 about 122lbs 5'3 and I have two little girls 6yrs and 10mon. I've been...

Before + After Photos

View 4258 Breast Implants photos

Alloderm and Breast Revision

I Had Bilateral Implants with Alloderm. I'm Experiencing a Very Uncomfotable Stiffness Across my Ribs Spans from one side to the the other as if I have a very tight under wire bra sewn into my chest. Will this go away? Is this the result of alloderm? My PS wants to see me in two months, but I cannot make it that long with this discomfort. Suggestions or information please? I would be nice to know what the reason was for the alloderm, but most likely it was placed along the... more

Alloderm and chest discomfort

I agree with Dr Wallach. When alloderm is used it is secured to the chest wall and that is the most likely cause of your discomfort. Sincerely, Martin Jugenburg, MD

Tightness across rib cage with alloderm

More than likely, the alloderm that was secured across your chest is the discomfort that you are feeling. If you want to be sure, I would talk with your doctor or see him for evalutation.

Steven Wallach, MD

13 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (0)

Ask a Question

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.