Burning or stinging pain after explant. Is this normal?

Question

I had my breast implants removed 3 weeks ago. They were saline over the muscle. About a week ago, I started to feel a burning or stinging in the bottom 1/2 of my left breast. It is not hot or discolored. Just the constant pain for the last week. It is very sensitive to touch as well. The right breast has no pain at all.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Burning pain is likely from a nerve being stretched or injured as a result of your surgery.  This should improve with time.  Sometimes using intermittent cold compresses on the area can help.  Your surgeon can prescribe medication if needed.

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Hello! It is not unusual to have pains or numbness after surgery, particularly within weeks of surgery, and particularly if there was significant scar tissue removed. You should reach out to your surgeon to see what he/she thinks about this. Having done the surgery they would understand what they came across during surgery.Best of luck!

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

I would check with your PS but symptoms such as these are not uncommon following explantation. You may have some stitches that you have aggravated as you have started mobilising. This should settle but I would see your PS for reassurance.

Burning or stinging pain after explant. Is this normal?

Answers (3)