Lower rib cage pain 7 years after my breast augmentation - what could be causing this?

Question

I had breast implants put in 7 years ago. I noticed a few years back that i would get random burning pain in my left rib cage area near the bottom. What could be causing this. No shift in implant or any other trama.

Celal Alioglu, MD · Answer

hello you need to go your sergeon and do check up your breast maybe implants makes some discomfortness.

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

Rib pain after breast augmentation can happen for several reasons. Implants tend to place more stress on the lowest quadrants of the breast and chest wall due to the effects of gravity and typical human movement. The lower edge of the implant can irrigate the covering of the rib (perichondrium or periosteum depending on location, medial vs lateral rib) or the intercostal muscle (muscle between the ribs). Larger implants have a greater capacity to irritate the rib or muscle due to the additional mass of the device. In addition, for some people, ribs 5-7 can flair forward, which can concentrate the irritation into a smaller area making the symptoms worse, more frequent, or both. Treatment focuses on implant support with a fitted bra and anti inflammatory medications like ibuprofen. Hope this helps and thank you for your question.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Without knowing more details and performing an examination, it would be hard to determine the cause of your pain.  It may or may not be related to your implants.  Burning pain suggests that the pain is caused by nerve irritation.  It would be helpful to keep a diary of your pain and keep track to see if there is anything that is causing the pain, whether it goes anywhere else, if there are any other symptoms associated, and treatments you have tried.  I would recommend seeing your plastic surgeon to ensure that your implants are not contributing to your pain.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Klankford24,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

If you're experiencing pain in your lower rib cage seven years after breast augmentation, it's important to consult a medical professional for a proper evaluation. There are several potential causes of rib cage pain, which may or may not be related to your breast augmentation:1.) Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is a potential complication of breast augmentation. It occurs when scar tissue forms around the breast implant and tightens, causing discomfort or pain. This could potentially lead to sensations of discomfort in the rib cage area.2.) Muscular Strain: Muscular strain or discomfort in the chest wall muscles can sometimes radiate to the rib cage area. Overuse, poor posture, or even exercise-related strain may contribute to this.3.) Costochondritis: Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. It can cause chest or rib cage pain and may be unrelated to your breast augmentation surgery.4.) Underlying Medical Conditions: There could be underlying medical conditions unrelated to your surgery that are causing the pain. Conditions such as gastritis, gallbladder issues, or even spinal problems can sometimes manifest as rib cage pain.5.) Nerve Compression: Nerves in the chest area can sometimes become compressed or irritated, leading to pain. This might not be directly related to the implants but could be positional or related to changes in your body over time.6.) Implant-Related Issues: While less common years after surgery, implant-related issues like implant rupture or leakage could potentially cause discomfort. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or other imaging tests can help detect such issues.7.) Surgical Complications: It's possible that there could be a complication from the initial surgery that has become symptomatic after several years. This could include issues with implant placement or other surgical aspects.Again, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a plastic surgeon or a breast specialist, to assess your specific situation. They can perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and order any necessary tests or imaging to determine the cause of your rib cage pain and recommend appropriate treatment options. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention to ensure your health and well-being.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is difficult to say if the pain you are experiencing is related to your implants or is something else entirely.  You can consider scheduling a visit with your surgeon to evaluate the area.  You could also speak with your primary care doctor about the discomfort.

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

The most likely cause is costochondritis. Inflammation of the ribs. This usually passes in a few months. Check a mammogram too. Perhaps a bone scan to confirm this.

Good luck. See a doctor.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Without a physical examination, one cannot determine the source of your pain. It may or may not be related to your breast surgery of 7 years ago. 
It may be wise to visit a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation.
Best wishes...

Lower rib cage pain 7 years after my breast augmentation - what could be causing this?

Answers (8)

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