Breast implant is painful 5 years later - advise?

Question

I had a breast augmentation back in February 2018. I’ve never had any issues however I have recently been experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort in my right breast when moving in certain positions. I had a baby 6 months ago however did not breastfeed. The breast to the eye looks perfectly normal however the pain experienced is making me worried. What could this be? The only way I could describe the pain is it almost feels bruised.

Martin Benjamin, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! Breast pain this far after augmentation may be suggestive of developing early signs of capsular contraction; which is also one of the more common complications that can arise after breast augmentation. There are modalities such as shockwave therapy (zimmer treatments) and/or medication that you can be placed on to prevent the progression of your symptoms. I would strongly recommend an in person evaluation with a board certified plastic surgeon to help rule out capsular contracture. It may be simply due to the recent birth but nonetheless it would be better to be evaluated in person. The earlier the symptoms are treated, the less likely you would need a surgical intervention. Good luck!

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

Hi.  Anytime you experience pain or other new sustained breast problem, you must go to your doctor to have an exam.  Sometimes, you may need a mammogram or ultrasound too, but your doctor can direct you appropriately.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ALSPRIV29,
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

Ahmed Ali-Khan, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Hi there are numerous reasons your breasts might be painful ranging from related to your breast implants to the breast tissue itself, and even the fact you recently had a child (congratulations by the way!).
It would be sensible to have a breast examination through the GP or your local breast surgery service to investigate.
Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the pain you are experiencing.  I encourage you to visit with your surgeon for an evaluation to see if the pain is related to the implant or is perhaps from another cause entirely.  it's not possible to determine what could be occurring without more information.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It would be difficult to diagnose what is causing the new unilateral breast pain.  If the breasts look symmetrical and are equally soft, then it is not a capsular contracture.  Is the pain reproducible when pressing on your ribs or sternum?  IF so, this is usually due to rib issues.  
If it only appeared after your child's birth, it may be either from a bit of engorgement (even though you're not breast feeding).
Either way, you should contact your implanting surgeon for their opinion.
Best wishes,
Dr. Taranow

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have developed a capsule since pregnancy. I would suggest meeting with your plastic surgeon or another and be examined.

Cengizhan Ekizceli, MD · Answer

Thank you so much for your question! It is recommended to do ultrasound(USG) test and according to its result get the medical evaluation. Hope it helped!

Breast implant is painful 5 years later - advise?

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