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Pain 3 Months After Implant Exchange Surgery

asked 11 months ago by maryann1156 in Bernville, PA
Latest answer by Randy Proffitt, MD
Question viewed 257 times
Tags: 3 months post-op, discomfort, normal, pain, tightness

I had silcone implants placed after bilateral mastectomy. I had a lot of discomfort with expanders but felt I would get relief once final implants were placed. Its been 3 months and I still have a lot of pain around the implants and a very tight band-like feeling across my upper chest. Its uncomfortable to walk for extended periods or to lay on sides. My doctor says to wait it out. I cant believe this is normal.

2 answers to Pain 3 Months After Implant Exchange Surgery

+1

Pain after implants for reconstruction

Pain is a nebulous thing. The best solution in most instances is time. As I'm sure you know capsular contracture is more common with reconstruction than cosmetic augmentation. A course of Singulair has worked wonders in some of my patients and is worth a try. If the pain can be pinpointed I will frequently inject a mixture of lidocaine and steroids lateral to the implant into the chest wall or intercostal space. Try the less invasive things first including... more
Randy Proffitt, MD

Mobile Plastic Surgeon
+1

Possible reasons for continued pain after breast reconstruction

The most common cause for pain after the replacement of the expander with an implant is continued capsular contraction. If your breast remain fairly hard, it is possible that the process of inflamation and continued shrinking of the capsule results in a capsular contracture. I often start my patients on Singullair 10 mg per day for 2 months. Time is youe ally and waiting at least another 2 months is very important, so your doctor is correct. I have seen dramatic responses to Singulair... more
Paul E. Chasan, MD

Del Mar Plastic Surgeon

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