9 months after breast augmentation, experiencing pain on lower right side. What can be causing this?

Question

Hello, I am experiencing pain in my lower right breast . I just received a mammogram and ultrasound, and everything is normal. I was told that I have dense breast, and my breast tissue looks normal. I had my breast augmentation 9 years ago and this is the first time I’ve ever experienced any pain. I would like to get a second opinion on what I should do because I know something isn’t right. thank you for your time!

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

New breast pain years after augmentation should be evaluated even when the mammogram and ultrasound are reassuring. Possible causes include capsule tightening, implant fold or edge pressure, implant malposition, a small fluid collection, nerve irritation, rib or muscle pain, and breast causes that may not be obvious on a basic exam.

A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is a good next step, and they may compare your implant position, examine the capsule, and decide whether additional imaging such as MRI is useful, especially if the implants are silicone. Seek prompt care if the pain is worsening quickly, or if you notice redness, warmth, fever, sudden swelling, drainage, a new mass, or a rapid change in breast shape.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Owolfe90,
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

Fernando Ovalle Jr., MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question! Breast pain can absolutely be from many different causes and it sounds like you are off to the right start in receiving some imaging studies. My advice would be to follow up with a board certified plastic surgeon for a full history and physical. One cause of breast pain after many years of having had implant surgery could be capsular contracture, especially if there is also any change in implant position/shape.

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

Experiencing pain on the lower right side of the breast nine months after breast augmentation may have various causes. While I can provide some general possibilities, it's crucial to consult with your plastic surgeon or a healthcare professional to evaluate your specific situation. Potential reasons for pain in the lower right side after breast augmentation include:1. Muscle or Tissue Strain:• Strain on the chest muscles or tissues during physical activities, exercise, or daily movements could lead to localized pain. It's possible that certain activities have put more stress on the area.2. Implant Position or Complication:• Changes in the position of the breast implant or complications, such as capsular contracture (the scar tissue around the implant becoming tight), may cause discomfort. Your plastic surgeon may need to evaluate the placement of the implant through imaging studies or physical examination.3. Infection:• Infections, though uncommon several months post-surgery, can cause pain and other symptoms. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness.4. Hematoma or Seroma:• A collection of blood (hematoma) or fluid (seroma) around the implant or in the surgical site may cause pain. These issues are more likely to occur shortly after surgery, but delayed complications can sometimes arise.5. Nerve Irritation:• Nerve irritation or compression can cause localized pain. This could be related to surgical trauma, positioning during surgery, or other factors.6. Implant-related Complications:• Conditions such as implant rupture or leakage can lead to pain or discomfort. Silicone implant rupture, for example, might not always be immediately noticeable.7. Costochondritis:• Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone (costochondritis) can cause chest pain or discomfort.It's important to reach out to your plastic surgeon promptly for an evaluation. They may conduct a physical examination, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI), or other diagnostic tests to identify the cause of your pain. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate management.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Have you visited with your surgeon?  If not it is best to go in for an evaluation as more information is needed to determine what may be occurring.  Is the area red as well?  That could indicate an infection.   Another possibility for the pain could be related to the capsule.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may be developing a capsule and I recommend that you be seen by a plastic surgeon and be examined.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Breast pain occurring years after breast augmentation may be caused by capsular contracture, which would be manifested as unnatural breast firmness or distortion. Breast implant illness is a rare but significant etiology. Entities other than the augmentation may be responsible. Mastitis is not an uncommon etiology. A muscle strain may be responsible for pain. Costochondritis can cause breast pain. An in-person evaluation is required.It is best to undergo reevaluation by your plastic surgeon to determine the source and treat the problem.Best wishes...

9 months after breast augmentation, experiencing pain on lower right side. What can be causing this?

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