28 months post op - What could be causing radiating pain?

Question

Symptoms: Left breast throbbing pain now radiating to neck, shoulder, and arm. CInlammation: left breast larger then right. Tests: CBC normal. No elevated WBC count. Infammatory markers neg. Protein C and ESR neg. Breast ultrasound neg for implant rupture or any abnormalities Breast MRI neg for malignancy, cysts, etc. Physical exam: Implant palpation does not reveal an obvious contracture. Left breast does feel inflamed. No redness or warmth. Prednisone taper not helpful. What is wrong?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the discomfort you are experiencing.  It's not possible to say from the information if this is related to your implants or something else completely.  You may need to visit a specialist, such as a neurologist, if all other tests are normal.

Frank Lista, MD · Answer

Hi there,It is difficult to answer your question without a full examination. I would recommend for you to follow up with your plastic surgeon to address your current concerns. They can go over possible explanations as well as management for your symptoms. Best of luck!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Breast augmentation surgery typically does not leave patients with long-term pain. Period.
Plastic surgeons are notoriously Not great at assessing or managing chronic pain period.
Breast pain, because common condition and may or may not be related to your previous surgery.
chronic pain is highly unusual after breast documentation. The pain assessment and ongoing management is not plastic surgery related even if you believe the pain is related to your operation.
No one can give you an assessment based on the information provided. 
I suggest you consult with the neurologist then you’ll need to make your own final conclusion whether breast augmentation is the underlying clause.
No one is going to guarantee that removal of your breast implants or other breast surgery is going to improve or make your symptoms worse.
Plastic surgeons are not trained in assessing or managing conditions.
I wish I could be more helpful, but this is something outside of the scope of most plastic surgeons practice and may be difficult to assess by any provider.
Those specializing in pain, especially those who understand the nervous system are probably better equipped and helping you
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

28 months post op - What could be causing radiating pain?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

28 months post op - What could be causing radiating pain?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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