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Sharp Pain 10 Years After Saline Breast Implants

I had Saline breast implants 10 years ago. They are under my muscle and have been very happy with the results. One week ago, I began noticing a sharp pain at the base (where the bottom of your bra sits) of my breast. It can travel up towards my nipple. It is most uncomfortable when I bend over without a bra. It is more tolerable when I wear a bra. This pain is only on one breast. What would you suggest I do? What do you think it could be?

Asked 32 months ago by Brooke in ND in bismarck, ND

Read my review "Breast Discomfort 10 Years Post 350cc Saline Implants"

Sort 6 expert answers by:
+4

Breast Pain

It sounds as if this is probably from some type of activity that has caused sensitivity of a sensory nerve because the pain radiates to the nipple. That can happen from physical activity such as lifting weights or something as simple as working in the back yard. Most of the time it is difficult to determine what event was the cause. Treatment consists of using NSAIDS such as motrin (Advil), etc. Generally, things will improve over 2-3 weeks and resolve completely thereafter. Without... more
Brian D. Brantner, MD
California Plastic Surgeon
+2

Definitely have it looked at to be safe

Hi, Thank you for your question. It is hard to say without examining you. I would definitely get a mammogram to make sure there are no suspicious findings. The pain could caused from physical activity that put too much strain on your breast. In that case, the pain should subside within a few weeks. The pain could also be linked to capsular contracture or maye even a loose pocket judging by the symptoms you described. For the last two, surgery would most likely be necessary to correct. You... more
Sam Speron, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+2

New Breast Pain, Old Implant Surgery

Brooke in ND: Since you had surgery more than a year ago and have recently developed the pain, you should handle this like pain that develops in someone without implants. It probably has nothing to do with the prior surgery. (Unless your have developed a late infection or hard capsule, which would be noticible for other reasons.) Contact your primary care physician (gynecologist, family practitioner, or internist) and schedule a breast exam. They may order any breast imaging studies they... more
Sutton Graham II, MD
Greenville Plastic Surgeon
+2

Breast pain

 The reasons for breast pain are numerous. It is hard to give you a definitive answer without examining you. The best thing to do is see your doctor to be properly evaluated.  
Steven Wallach, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+2

Can be seen in a loose capsule

I have seen a few patients for revision who felt their breasts fell too far to the side when they laid down and had some discomfort when leaning forward out of a bra. They were treated by an operation to tighten up the capsule by sewing inside and although I could never promise the pain would go away, these patients felt better after the procedure. You should make an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you a better idea of your options. Take care.... more
Michael C. Edwards, MD
Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon
+2

Hard to tell what you're experiencing

Hi Brooke, It's hard to tell what you're experiencing without performing a detailed history and physical exam. I don't think it's anything alarming, but do suggest you see a plastic surgeon in the office. It's simply too difficult to diagnose this problem in this type of forum. Good luck!
Elan B. Singer, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
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