I have a hard string under my chest at 5 weeks post-op, what is it? (photo)

At 5 weeks you are starting to form scar tissue. This may be a Mondor's cord and will slowly resolve.  Or, less likely a suture.  Massaging may help.  Some docs may inject a dilute steroid to reduce inflammation. However, no need to worry at this point. 

The previous surgeon is correct. It is a vein which has become stiff and "fibrotic" It will go away. Massage.

This is most likely a vein which was cauterized at some point along its course during surgery and now no longer contains blood.  It is a linear scar now, which is called a Mondor's cord.  It can be massaged in such a way that it breaks up into short segments, which will no longer cause the discomfort or appearance.

Dear jobcall, When patients refer to a "hard string" after trunk surgery, it is typically something that we call Mondors cords, or a superficial thrombophlebitis. These are usually benign and resolve on their own. It is always best to have an in person exam to confirm this, so I would return to your operating surgeon and have them take a look, but based on your description that is most likely what you are referring to. Good luck!

Thanks for your question and photo.  The hard string may represent a superficial vein that has clotted, or some scar tissue.  It is a little difficult to tell just from the photo.  Certainly show your surgeon at your next appointment.  Good luck!

Hi jobcall,Ths is undoubtedly a Mondor's cord. It is due to inflammation of a superficial vein on underneath the skin and can feel like a thin rope. Mondor's cords typically can develop as early as 2-3 weeks after a procedure. The good news is that they resolve without any further intervention. I recommend massaging the area, but you are correct, there is no need to panic. Dr. Dadvand

Agree with everyone here that it is most likely a Mondors Cord. Your surgeon will give you some tips to help resolve it. Best.

It could be a Mondor's cord which is a superficial thrombophlebitis or hard vein under the skin. It is difficult to say without an exam, and it is best to see your surgeon.

This probably is a clotted superficial vein. This happens rarely and can be treated easily, contact your plastic surgeon.Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

It is difficult to assess what this is without an examination.  Please be sure to contact your plastic surgeon for an evaluation.  Best wishes.