Can Fibrocystic breasts still be painful and be felt under implants? (Photo)

It is difficult to tell how far out from surgery you are based on the photo.  However, swelling and pain can be common if your surgery is fairly recent.  Also, technically, whether your implants were placed subglandular or submuscular, the fibrocystic breast tissue will still be above your implants.  Most surgeons use an absorbable suture for this surgery.  I use a monofilament suture as I feel it "spits" less often and is less prone to infections.  Finally, if your surgery is very recent, it may be less likely that you are experiencing capsular contracture.  Having said all this, your surgeon is the best person to evaluate your situation.  I would recommend you have an honest conversation with him or her and emphasize your concern and insist on a more thorough evaluation.  Your symptoms may be temporary and will resolve and your surgeon has made this determination but he/she may just need to convey this to you more thoroughly.  Communicate, communicate, communicate.  Good luck and be safe.John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICSDouble Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Indeed you could be experiencing tenderness from either fibrocystic disease and/or ongoing recovery from breast surgery. Depending upon how far out you are from surgery and whether physical exam is conclusive, you may benefit from and ultrasound. Glad to help. 

Hello,I am sorry you are having discomfort with your right breast.  You should be aware of where your implants are located and their relationship with your natural breast tissue.  Your surgeon either placed your implants above or below your pectoralis muscle.  Regardless, your breast tissue is always above your implants.  This is important so that you can examine your breasts in the future.If you have an active cyst, it should be easily identified and followed. Best of luck!