Slipped down stairs 5 days after breast augmentation. Contacted PS, but would like a second opinion. Thoughts?

Question

I slipped down a few stairs but reached as a reaction to catch myself. Felt a burning sensation with the stretch on my right breast. There is no significant bruising but there is an intense burning sensation when I touch from the nipple down and around the insicion sight. No bleeding and no sight of bruising yet. I will contact my plastic surgeon ASAP but any ideas if I should be concerned about this or if there may be anything negatively affected by this? Thank you

Kamran Azad, MD · Answer

You are right to follow up with your plastic surgeon as only an in person examination can rule out additional trauma. Generally if there isn't bruising or swelling you should be okay and would need to wait it out, but with that said, definitely follow up with your PS.Kamran Azad MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question. In the absence of significant swelling or bruising or asymmetry between the two sides, it is unlikely that you have caused significant damage. See your surgeon as soon as you can for more guidance. Best,

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

What you describe sound normal after an unexpected stress, and you will likely be fine, but best to check in with your PS.Best wishes,

Roger Tsai, MD · Answer

Great question!  As long as you don't notice significant bruising, significant swelling, or a displacement of the implant, there is nothing to do at the moment but wait and see what happens.  It will definitely hurt more because of the trauma so that's not unusual.  However, I would have your plastic surgeon examine you ASAP to make sure everything still looks okay.Best of luck and hope this information helps!
- Dr. Roger Tsai  @DrRogerTsai
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi ACassell0595, 
  
I am sorry to hear about what happened and I do understand your concern. Though I suspect that your implants have not ruptured in relation to the trauma you've mentioned, it is difficult ascertain anything without an in-person examination. It is best that you visit a board certified plastic surgeon to have yourself properly assessed. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert D. Wilcox, MD · Answer

Dear Acasstll0595, The nerve to the nipple comes from the side of the chest under the fourth rib.  It is on tension immediately after a breast augmentation.  You have probably injured it making it hypersensitive.  If you still have sensation to the nipple, then you can assume the nerve is intact even if you are having burning pain in which case time should correct that.Robert D. Wilcox, M.D.

Jerry Chidester, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Hope you are feeling better after your recent slip down the stairs! I agree with you contacting your plastic surgeon as soon as possible to make sure you are assessed in person. However, with the lack of significant change in your breast size or visible bruising and swelling, it is likely that you irritated some of the nerves that travel toward your nipple. This will likely improve with time. Talk to your plastic surgeon before taking any NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, etc.) as they can potentially cause bleeding but also help with inflammation. Best of luck!

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

It is recommended to reach out to your surgeon for instructions and possible office visit to ensure things are okay. Pay attention to any swelling or bruising and take care of the area in the meantime.Best Wishes!

MyChi Le, MD · Answer

If there is no increased in swelling or bruising, you should be fine. Gently massage the areas of burning pain and it should get better with time. That being said, best to get an exam by your surgeon within the week.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. As long as no bruise or swelling it is OK to observe. Please follow up with your PS.

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Slipped down stairs 5 days after breast augmentation. Contacted PS, but would like a second opinion. Thoughts?

Answers (11)

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