Is it OK to have a breast augmentation with previous broken ribs?

Question

I broke my ribs falling down the stairs around 10 years ago and they caused me pain for years afterwards. I snapped them like sticks on both sides mainly towards the bottom of my rib cage. Although they are ok If I overdo something they can become sore for days. I'm booked in for a breast enlargement This month - is it ok with historical broken ribs? Should I get some X-rays prior? I'm worried that if I have broken ribs over my lungs/heart there could be issues or the implants could rebreak ribs.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

Best to discuss this with your operating surgeon since he or she will be the best judge to determine whether additional imaging is warranted. Highly doubtful that implants will re-break ribs. Good luck!

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hi Johandyside.I would suggest you make your plastic surgeon aware of your rib injury and he can make the decision about reviewing x-rays of you ribs. I have performed surgery many times in people with broken ribs in the past and there has been no differences when compared to patients who never had injuries in the ribs or chest wall. However, every case is unique and I think you just need to communicate with your surgeon about this concern.Good luck on your future breast augmentation surgery!Dr. ALDO :)

Jon E. Rast, MD · Answer

Yes, it should be fine to have a breast augmentation. It would be best if you made your surgeon aware of your past history. He/she can make the decision on whether an x-ray would be needed.

Paul Phillips, MD · Answer

In most cases you should be fine proceeding with a remote history of broken ribs, although each case is different.  I would recommend making sure your surgeon is aware of the past injury and allowing them to determine if there is a need for further workup.  Good luck!!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Yes, you should be just fine proceeding with breast augmentation surgery.   The procedure and or the overlying breast implants will not "rebreak" the ribs. My best advice: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that he/she has significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, communicate your goals carefully. Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve your goals. You may find the attached link helpful to you as you learn more.  Best wishes.

Barry M. Schwartz, MD (retired) · Answer

There isn't any reason that your prior rib fractures should cause a problem with getting a breast augmention.

Enriquillo Clime Rivera, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi, and thank you for the question.Yes in general it should be ok for you to have the procedure done, however discuss this futher with your certified plastic surgeon and make sure to have have a X ray and perphas an MRI.

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Is it OK to have a breast augmentation with previous broken ribs?

Answers (7)

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