6 weeks Post Op Breast Augmentation through my armpits and now a pulling feeling in my left armpit--Is this normal?

Question

I am 6 weeks post op from breast augmentation through the armpit. Just a few days ago, my left armpit started to feel like a stitch was pulling instead of my armpit. I had 270cc saline breast implants and I feel fine except a weird pulling feeling. Is this normal?

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

After breast augmentation it is normal to have some tissue tightness or pulling sensations.  Sometimes these can be categorized as Mondor's cords especially when they are located under the breasts. I have occasionally seen a Mondor's cord near the armpit after making incisions there. Personally I no longer make incisions in the armpit (axillary incision) so I haven't seen that for years.The best resource to make sure that what you are experiencing is normal is your own plastic surgeon and you should set up an appointment to be seen just to make sure. He or she can also advise you on practices that can help improve your situation.

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is not uncommon to have pulling or tugging sensations after surgery. Common causes include deep buried sutures and scar tissue and swelling.  Most of these sensations resolve as the sutures absorb, swelling resolves and the tissue softens with healing.  As long as the pain is not persistent or there are no visible changes then things should be ok. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon at the next office visit. Best wishes on your recovery.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hard to tell without a physical exam but in my experience armpit incisions are always tricky because its not in a great place for an incision you are likely having a reaction to the stitch and may need a minor procedure to deal with it

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

This is fairly common and in my experience typically resolves over a period of several months. I recommend massage by my patients that experience this to speed up the softening of the tissues.

Gaurav Bharti, MD, FACS · Answer

It would be best to contact your surgeon so they can examine you.  Most likely this is suture that is causing some discomfort and will likely improve with time and massage.  Good luck, Gaurav Bharti

6 weeks Post Op Breast Augmentation through my armpits and now a pulling feeling in my left armpit--Is this normal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Pulling

Answer: Pulling

Answer: Breast Augmentation Arm Pit Pain

Answer: Breast Augmentation Arm Pit Pain

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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6 weeks Post Op Breast Augmentation through my armpits and now a pulling feeling in my left armpit--Is this normal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Pulling

Answer: Pulling

Answer: Breast Augmentation Arm Pit Pain

Answer: Breast Augmentation Arm Pit Pain

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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