Breast animation deformity and chronic pain - could the cause be that my pec muscle has adhered to the chest wall? (photos)

Question

I originally had breast augmentation in 2016- subpectoral. I was 37 y.o. 128 lbs, athletic body type. In 2018 I developed chronic upper back/neck pain. In 2020 I had breast implants removed. The pain persists. I have severe animation deformity with any arm movement and my pec region always feels tight. Could it be that pec muscle has adhered to chest wall causing all issues? Countless phys. therapists said tight pecs can certainly cause upper back/ neck pain. contemplating muscle reattachment.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Please see the attached video that answers your question. Your symptoms&mdash;chronic pain, severe animation deformity, and persistent tightness in the pectoral region after implant removal&mdash;could indeed be related to muscle changes resulting from the original augmentation and subsequent removal. In subpectoral breast augmentations, the pectoralis major muscle is partially detached from the chest wall, and its function may change.Adhesions between the muscle and chest wall, improper reattachment, or scarring can lead to restricted movement, muscle imbalance, and tension. This tightness could contribute to your upper back and neck pain due to compensation patterns and stress on surrounding muscles. The animation deformity further suggests the muscle is not functioning as it naturally would.While pectoralis adhesions or improper healing may be contributing to your symptoms, a definitive diagnosis requires imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI) and surgical evaluation. Considering muscle reattachment could potentially improve both the deformity and chronic pain, but weigh this option carefully with your surgeon, as outcomes depend on individual anatomy and the extent of scarring. Consulting a specialist in post-implant removal complications is essential for a tailored approach.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear skayefox,
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 @skayefox, thank you for your question.  I understand your concerns regarding breast animation deformity and chronic pain. It's possible that the underlying cause of your symptoms could be related to your pectoral muscle adhering to the chest wall. However, a thorough consultation and examination would be necessary to determine the cause of the problem and treat it. Reconstruction surgery may be an option to correct the aesthetic component of your concerns. However, additional diagnostic testing may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan. With that said, it's important to have consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon to assess your individual situation and provide you with the best recommendations for your unique needs. I link a testimonial video. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

When breast implants are removed, the pectorals major will heal and adhere to the chest wall. This will cause in certain patients an animation deformity and occasionally pain. in most cases, heat and massage and physical therapy will help. I suggest you see your plastic surgeon and discuss this problem.

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

Hello.  If our breast moves with arm movement, then very likely, the breast tissue and skin have adhered to the underlying muscle.  Whether this is the cause of your pain requires more investigation.  It's best you see a board-certified plastic surgeon examine you and go over your surgical history.

Breast animation deformity and chronic pain - could the cause be that my pec muscle has adhered to the chest wall? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Breast Pain

Answer: Breast Pain

Answer: See a plastic surgeon

Answer: See a plastic surgeon

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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

Breast animation deformity and chronic pain - could the cause be that my pec muscle has adhered to the chest wall? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Breast Pain

Answer: Breast Pain

Answer: See a plastic surgeon

Answer: See a plastic surgeon

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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