10 Days Post Capsulectomy: Pain Has Returned

Question

10 Days Ago Had a Capsulectomy, Replaced with 260cc Silicone Implants (Sub-muscular) with Strattice.  After 6 Days the Pain was managable with one vicoden every seven hours. Now on the 7th day, having taken a vicoden only 2 hours earlier, I woke up with pain in both breasts and I am back on pain medication as in the beginning.

	The pain makes is difficult to sleep or rest. I find the pain to be more manageable when I am up and moving around. Is this normal to start to feel better and then get increased pain? What can I expect for healing time for a procedure like this? I am 65 years old.

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Post surgical pain at variable levels persists for weeks to months following a procedure.  In some cases, discomfort may last longer, may be positional, and may require intermittent use of analgesics for an extended period of time.  If Strattice was used in your revision, suturing this porcine acellular dermis may have involved a local intercostal mammary or cutaneous nerve, resulting in unexpected discomfort.  If a submuscular pocket was enlarged, muscular contraction and use of your arm may be painful until the area heals. 

	Use analgesics as prescribed, rest until your pain resolves sufficiently to increase your activity level, and follow up closely with your surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Unfortunately it is not possible to make an accurate diagnosis or to give you good advice without examination. I would suggest continued follow with your plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,

	Increasing pain is a worrisome sign. You need to be examined by your surgeon to be sure nothing is wrong.

	 

	Best Regards,

	 

	John Di Saia MD

Christine Sullivan, MD (retired) · Answer

Anytime you have a specific question regarding post-operative care, you should contact your board certified plastic surgeon's office. There may be a number of reasons for the discomfort. It is best to contact your surgeon regarding your concerns.

Lisa Lynn Sowder, MD (retired) - Account Suspended · Answer

Your increase in pain may be from an increase in your activity?  If you don't think this is the case, you really should see your surgeon is you continue to feel worse rather than better. 

	Lisa Lynn Sowder, M.D.

10 Days Post Capsulectomy: Pain Has Returned

Answers (6)