Surgery for silicone breast implant complication?

I had Silicone Breast Implants 6 months ago, and everything was okay until ten days ago. I felt pain like electric shocks in my left breast, and when I lift it up, I see what looks like a vertical vein that is rock-hard when I touch it. It extends downward for 3-4 cm from my scar line. My doctor said I need steroid injections, but when I took one, it didn't help with the pain. He said that I might need surgical intervention. Is it really likely that I need surgery for this?

Sort: Date | Helpful
18 answers to “Surgery for silicone breast implant...”

A: Mondor's Disease - by history

Steven H. Schuster, MD

I would have to agree with most Plastic Surgeons posting here that this sounds like mondor's disease - superficial vein thrombophlebitis--and will resolve with local local such as warm soaks, anti-inflammatories and close follow-up by your plastic surgeon. OF the 4 cases I have seen in 20+ years of practice,... more

A: Would avoid steroid injections on breasts

W. Tracy Hankins, MD

I agree with the diagnosis of Mondor's disease although this is a late presentation. Steroid injections could thin the tissue in the area and put you at risk for implant exposure in the future, so I would avoid them.

A: Agree with Mondor's diagnosis but another possibility exists...

Brian K. Brzowski, MD

Sure sounds like Mondor's disease; probably not related to your breast surgery this far out, by the way.  But, it also could be swelling in the milk line.  From an embryologic standpoint, there is a line from the chest to the pubic area in the region where other mammals such as dogs have multiple... more

A: Mondor's disease

Bahram Ghaderi, MD

I agree with the previous diagnosis of your issue. Surgical intervention is rarely if ever required. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, warm packs and rest as mentioned by the other surgeons here is the treatment of choice. Close follow-up and frequent examination to make sure it is resolving is the... more

A: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, rarely surgery

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD

Most likely Mondor's disease. The treatment is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, warmth, and rest. Rarely thrombous removal is needed. In general, this will improve on its own. Good Luck

A: Sounds like Mondor's Disease, but...

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello, You likely have Mondor's disease as the others here have mentioned, but make sure your surgeon follows you in the office until this resolves. There are less likely things like scarring/capsular contracture that only proper follow-up will exclude.

A: Sounds Like Mondor's Disease To Me

Scott E. Kasden, MD

This sounds like Mondor's Disease which is a self limiting harmless clot in a veign below the breast.  It can be quite impressive looking (not to mention scary looking and uncomfortable) to wee when it is a long involved vein.  Treatment is usually supportive and includes warm moist heat, and Advil... more

A: Mondor's Disease

Steven H. Williams, MD

It sounds like what you're describing is Mondor's disease, although it typically resolves prior to 6 months. Re-operation is not the treatment of choice but anti-inflammatories, massage and careful monitoring. See your plastic surgeon and discuss your post-op problems in detail. I hope this helps.

A: Mondor's disease is probably the culprit

Francisco Canales, MD

The symptoms described are most consistent with Mondor's disease or Mondor's thrombophlebitis. Thrombosis of a superficial vein leads to a cord-like structure in the vicinity of the fold incision. We have seen this in a handful of patients, but usually we see within one month of surgery. Seeing it as late as... more

A: Mondor's Disease Complicating Breast Augmentation

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

The differential diagnosis of a hard, painful vein on the breast following breast augmentation is a condition known as Mondor's disease.  In this condition, the vein in the superficial aspect of the breast becomes thrombosed, or clotted.  This is primarily a non-surgical disease that is best treated... more

Post your question

Breast implants: 679 reviews

77% said it was worth it

Breast implants before & after photos

SPONSORED Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.