Can you advise on intense pulling sensation with animation at the breast crease?

Question

Hi, I had 300 cc silicone implants placed under the muscle in 2017, woke up with a double bubble on the left with intense pulling and tightness at the crease with pec muscle activation or slight arm movements, underwent revision surgery 9 months later with release of muscle, but implants bottomed out at 3 months. Removed implants w a lift and fat grafting one year later in 2019 but the pulling sensation is still there and I have discomfort and pain wearing a bra at the crease and lateral side.

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Since you have no implants, the muscle should be healed. There can not be any capsular contracture due to the implant removal. The reason for your discomfort is unclear but may be due to residual scar tissue. I would use heat and massage in the area of discomfort. A physical therapy consult with ultrasound may also help. Always best to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. This is very likely scar tissue pulling on the skin from the dynamics of the pectoralis muscle. The scar may need to be released, depending on your assessment from a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you've been having.  Due to the complexity of the situation it is best to meet with your surgeon to discuss your continuing symptoms.  If desired you can take your operative reports to another board certified plastic surgeon for a second opinion.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Warmhearted153162,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Warmhearted153162, thank you for your question. A personalized assessment of the process is necessary in order to give you an expert opinion regarding your specific situation. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP) FACS.

Can you advise on intense pulling sensation with animation at the breast crease?

Answers (5)