Still sick after reconstruction with implant?

Question

I am 4 weeks post op. Started getting nauseous with a burning ich that starts behind my implant up my chest to my face and down my arm. When I walk it feels like someone is taking a file to my chest and side. Have tried to talk to ps and was told nothing to worry about. Had stopped taking all meds to see if it would help but has not it just keeps getting worse and spreading. Have lost trust in ps after this. Should I get help else where?

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I am sorry that you are having problems. Usually it is 4-6 weeks before patients start feeling more "normal" after their reconstruction. Often, with expander placement there is a strange pulling sensation. This actually improves with filling of the expander and increased activity, range of motion exercises and stretching. A physical therapist might be good for you to try and help expedite your recovery. If it persists after a few months you might seek additional opinions if you don't feel like your questions are being addressed. Best of Luck!

Jennifer Lauren Crawford, MD · Answer

I am so sorry that you are experiencing this level of discomfort.  Your body goes through a lot after mastectomy and breast reconstruction and patients can definitely develop issues with pain which seem to last longer than expected.  Plastic surgeons do not have as many tools to treat pain as pain specialists do and having a consult with someone who specializes in pain may be your next best step.  If acute surgical pain does not improve with narcotics which are usually weaned off by 3 or 4 weeks out and then NSAIDS (such as ibuprofen), then a bigger toolbox of options should be looked into.  Breast pain can be described in many ways- some of it is hypersensitivity and inflammation (hyperalgesia), some of it is constricting and spastic (muscle spasm), and some is tingling/burning/shooting nerve related pain (neuropathy).  A good pain specialist will delve into your pain and try some new remedies.  There are certain prescription medications that can help alleviate neuropathy.  There are even patches and creams that can help with super sensitive skin areas.  In addition, therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, and physical therapy combined eventually with exercise such as yoga that can make big impacts in perception of pain.  Please inquire with your plastic surgeon or primary care doctor about a referral to pain management.  There are many good ones in and around Austin.

Still sick after reconstruction with implant?

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Still sick after reconstruction with implant?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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