Pain with movement on right side of abs and left breast 6 months after tummy tuck and breast lift. What can be causing this?

Question

6 months post tummy tuck and breast augmentation I have been experiencing pain on my breast since day 1 and now for about 2 months nonstop I have a pain on the right side of my abs (I had then repair) I had to stop working out per my doctor’s advise and feel the pain with any body movement. I have been taking some prescribed pills to prevent capsular for almost 2 months, but nothing since to make a change and looking for second opinions. Note: both breast look normal and soft.

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Pain in specific areas after a tummy tuck and breast lift six months post-surgery could be due to various reasons:

Healing Process: Sometimes, discomfort or pain can persist for a while as your body continues to heal. Sensations like tingling, numbness, or occasional pain can occur as nerves regenerate and tissues settle.

Muscle Tightness: Tightness or discomfort in the abdominal muscles on the right side might be related to the tummy tuck. It can take time for muscles to fully adjust and regain their flexibility and strength.

Scar Tissue: Formation of scar tissue during the healing process can occasionally cause discomfort or pain. This might be more noticeable when you move or stretch certain areas.

Breast Implants or Lift: Sensitivity or discomfort in the left breast might be related to the healing process after the breast lift or due to the presence of implants.

Inflammation or Infection: Though less common at this stage, it's essential to consider the possibility of inflammation or infection. If there's redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the incision sites, it's crucial to contact your surgeon promptly.

It's highly recommended to revisit your plastic surgeon for an evaluation. They can examine the areas of concern, review your healing progress, and assess whether any specific issues need attention. They may recommend imaging tests or other diagnostic procedures to identify the cause of your discomfort and provide appropriate treatment or reassurance. Always prioritize your health and well-being when experiencing any post-surgical concerns.

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

I am sorry you are experiencing persistent pain. Regarding breast pain after breast augmentation: it depends on which position the implants are in and implant size. If your implants are under the muscle, the most common source of pain is the muscle itself. Muscle pain often responds well to physical therapy. Larger implant size can be more painful and, in some cases, contribute to nerve pain due to how the nerve or nerves are stretched over the implant. 
Persistent abdominal pain is most often linked to the muscle tightening sutures. Unidentified seroma is another common cause of pain. Nerve injuries can cause persistent pain after tummy tuck, but this is less common. A detailed history and physical exam and an ultra sound (if fluid collections like a serum are suspected) usually determine the cause.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Powerful 0114, thank you for your question. There are different factors that are at play when we talk about pain: One is the surgical technique of the doctor, technology used to avoid trauma and pain and the level of pain that the patient tolerates. Pain is a very personal thing. However, it is important that you talk to your doctor because he knows how the surgery was performed and how to manage the pain accordingly. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the discomfort you are experiencing.  It's really difficult to say what may be causing this, as it could be so many things.  I encourage you to meet with your surgeon to discuss your pain in more detail.  What makes it better? What makes it worse?  Does medication help?  Does rest help? Is it sharp, dull, burning, etc?  What time of day does it occur? Is it constant or intermittent?  The answers to these questions and more may help to discover the source and therefore the solution.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Powerful 0114,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Pain with movement on right side of abs and left breast 6 months after tummy tuck and breast lift. What can be causing this?

Answers (8)

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain on movement

Answer: Pain on movement

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Pain with movement on right side of abs and left breast 6 months after tummy tuck and breast lift. What can be causing this?

Answers (8)

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain on movement

Answer: Pain on movement

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.