What can cause persistent, slight pain on the lateral side of right breast with breast implants about 4 years after surgery?

Question

I have had textured silicone breast implants for almost 4 years and within the last two weeks, I have had persistent, slight pain on the lateral side of my right breast and was wondering what this might be? My primary care physician examined my breast and said she found no lumps or swelling. Within the last month, I have also had neuropathy (tingling/numbness in right toes with some warm sensations in my right leg) and occasional lightheadedness.

John J. Corey, MD · Answer

four years later with textured implants it’s highly unlikely that the discomfort is coming from your implants. Textured implants in most cases grip pretty well and don’t move around much. What’s also confusing is the other symptoms you are having with neuropathy. So if your implants are not getting hard and there are no other breast changes, it most likely is not implant related. But again very hard to tell ...

Terence Goh, MBBS, MRCS(Ed), FAMS (Plast Surg) · Answer

Dear jewel8,
Thank you for you question. There can be many reasons for pain and it would be prudent for you to get an in-person consultation with your plastic surgeon. The causes, include capsular contracture, hematoma, implant rupture The other symptoms you have are likely to be unrelated but you should definitely check in with your plastic surgeon who did the implants for you.
I hope this answers your question. Have a great week ahead and all the best!
Dr. Terence Goh
MBBS (S'pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (S’pore)Fellow, Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)President, Singapore Association of Plastic Surgeons (SAPS)International Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jewel8,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. Only after 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

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.   It is hard to say what can be causing it, capsular contracture is possible, however, I would recommend you see your PS for an exam and possible mammogram or ultrasound.

What can cause persistent, slight pain on the lateral side of right breast with breast implants about 4 years after surgery?

Answers (4)