Recurring breast pain 7 years after getting silicone implants

Question

I had silicone implants instead 7 years ago. In February 2023 I began experiencing excruciating right breast pain from the nipple to my back which radiated to my arm and clavicle. I took antiinflammatory meds, muscle relaxers, and slept upright because it hurt worse lying down. I had an MRI without contrast with no significant findings. I saw ba plastic surgeon who said that it was muscle strain. The pain finally went away. The pain retuned two weeks ago and I am still in pain. Please advise.

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

If you have recurrent breast pain, you should definitely return to your PS to be evaluated.  I would suggest getting a mammogram too, but without all of the details, this may not be necessary.  Breast pain is not normal after this much time, so you need to get an answer as to what is causing it.  Best of luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Pioneering92927,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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

Igor Burko, MD · Answer

Hello, my name is Dr. Burko and I am a Plastic Surgeon at SY Aesthetics in New York City. Breast/chest pain can have numerous causes. Firstly, it is important to make sure you are following the appropriate recommendations for your breasts (ultrasound, mammogram). Your primary care doctor typically will perform an annual breast exam and refer you for any indicated imaging studies as needed. Another source of chest pain can be musculoskeletal if there is any muscle strain/tear.As far as the implant is concerned, you can sometimes develop a capsular contracture. Everyone normally forms a capsule around a breast implant, however, sometimes that capsule can harden and even cause pain/discomfort. A trained plastic surgeon will be able to tell if you have a capsular contracture by performing a physical exam. My recommendation is for you to follow-up with your primary care physician to see if they recommend any imaging studies or other referrals.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

Since the MRI was negative for any breast findings of implant findings, that is suggestive of either a muscle or nerve issue.  Either one generally will resolve itself with some conservative care - avoid strenuous exercise that might be aggravating the area, massage any sensitive are to desensitize it, use heating pad/ NSAID to help, and give it time.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

If your problems continue,  you may discussed option of implant replacement (new pocket) or even removal of implants.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have some capsule or scar tissue that is involving a sensory nerve. You might consider going down in size which will be less strain on your tissue.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's uncommon for excruciating pain that begins seven years after surgery to be related to the augmentation without obvious findings.  You can elect to have the implants removed or exchanged at any time but without further information it is unknown if it will be beneficial.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Based on what you’re describing, it doesn’t sound like your pain is related to your implants. Breast pain is pretty common but your description of intermittent pain is a bit unusual.
I suggest consulting with a pain management specialist.
Sometimes the underlying source of pain simply can’t be identified.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Recurring breast pain 7 years after getting silicone implants

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