Can rib pain and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome be due to Implants?

Question

I had 280cc, silicone, under the muscle implants in 2011. On and off (but more on recently), I have had rib pain on both sides that's even tender to touch. Seen the surgeon and he did an ultrasound and said nothing is wrong with the implants. Well in the past 3 years I have had surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome on my right side. I wonder if this could be due to the implants too? The rib pain right now is mostly on the left side right now. No breast dimpling, swelling, firmness, asymmetry.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks for this question. Breast implants do not lead to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. The breast implants are not likely to be the cause of your rib pain. It sound like you're describing a healthy breast capsule, good overall results, and normal studies for your breast implants. See a specialist about your rib pain. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Daniel G. Kuy, MD · Answer

sorry too hear about the pain. Implants can cause rib pain especially when they are up and move over certain area that is prominent. I will try with Advil to see if you experience Improvement. You may try also to find a different bra that supports the implants better and see if that helps. The implant will never cause a thoracic outlet syndrome.

Victor Ferrari, MD, FACS · Answer

Sorry to hear about your problems.  Rib pain can be associated with implants.  Large implants tend to have a higher risk of rib pain.  Your 280cc implants are considered small.  It is highly unlikely (if not impossible) that your breast implants have anything to do with your thoracic outlet syndrome because the anatomical problems associated with TOS are nowhere near the implants.  In other words, the breast implants are not putting pressure on the anatomic regions that cause TOS.

Can rib pain and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome be due to Implants?

Answers (3)