It is possible to tear a muscle over an implant?

Question

About a week ago my son and I were playing and he fell full weight into the side of my left implant. Since then I have been very sore on that side and have had a few moments of feeling like something is seriously wrong. I saw my PS and he said it's not a rupture but he didn't give me time to explain that I think it is a muscle tear. I've never felt anything like this before. I can't lay certain ways or push on my left side like I could before. Have any drs had a patient with a similar situation?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It is most likely a tear in the implant capsule, not a muscle tear.  Either way, the treatment is the same, patience and pain control.  Do not do anything that aggravates the pain.  Cut back on your physical activities. This may take several months before the pain completely resolves.  Keep close contact with the surgeon.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question. I have seen patients with similar situations and is usually do to a muscle tear, contusion, or spasms. It is usually self-limited. Continue to see your PS for follow up. Best, Dr. ALDO

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

If it has been about a week, I wouldn't worry too much. It certainly could be a muscle strain or bruise. If you are able, I would simply try some over the counter NSAIDs for about another week. The pain and discomfort should improve. If there was a problem with the implant, you would likely see some asymmetry and your surgeon would have likely seen it. If it is a muscle issue, it should heal on its own.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the mishap. Based on your description, it is likely that you have strained or bruised the muscle and/or the overlying tissues. Serious damage, given the "mechanism of injury" is unlikely.  These types of  "injuries"  symptoms generally improve over the course of 1 to 2 weeks.  Rest and the use of anti-inflammatories (if approved by your plastic surgeon) may be indicated. Continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon who will always be your best resource when it comes to accurate assessment and meaningful reassurance. Best wishes.

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD · Answer

You may be correct in thinking of a pectoralis muscle tear if your implants are under the pectoralis. However, short of obtaining an expensive MR scan of the muscles, there is not a good way of diagnosing it. Soreness and weakness can persist for several weeks. During this time you should reduce your activities and take an anti-inflammatory medicine regularly. You could also talk with a physical therapist for exercises that will help the muscle heal more rapidly.On the other hand, your pain may be from a bruised or cracked rib, or even a tear in the muscles between the ribs. Treatment for these injuries is similar to the treatment for the pectoralis tear.

It is possible to tear a muscle over an implant?

Answers (5)

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