Can weight loss result in breast implant pain?

Question

I got my breast augmentation when I was 18 (2008). At that time I weighed about 95 lbs. I event reached 100 lbs at a point. I went from a AA to a full B/ small C (350 cc). I've lost some weight in the past couple months and now weigh 86.5 lbs. I'm experiencing some breast pain and rippling the past couple months. Is this due to the significant weight loss? They've also started to feel harder. I've never has an issue until now.

Jennifer Boll, MD · Answer

Krauda,Weight loss does not typically cause breast pain, however, it can definitely cause the rippling seen. If your implants are starting to become painful and harder, you may be developing capsular contracture which is too much scar tissue around your implants. It squeezes on the implants and makes the implants feel harder, ride up on the chest, and it can cause pain or pulling/ tightness sensations. If this in the case, you should see your plastic surgeon for evaluation. If capsular contracture is caught early, it can sometimes be treated, however if it is advanced then surgical treatment is the only therapy. Although I do not have your height, your weight is very low for most any height. And you have lost about 15% of your body mass in months. It is possible that your have had some muscle breakdown with this dramatic weight loss. Although not typical, this could contribute to your pain. Additionally, you probably have extremely minimal breast tissue overlying your implants which is why the natural implant rippling is now visible to you. This may make them feel harder to you although that is not typical. I would certainly recommend that you schedule an appointment with your plastic surgeon for implant evaluation and your primary care physician to discuss the weight loss.

Daniel Kolder, MD · Answer

I would first contact your surgeon for an evaluation.  Weight changes and pain usually are not something traditionally seen.  The rippling is most likely a result of the weight loss.  When women lose weight, they also lose volume in their breasts and this allows the implant to become more visible.  Most important take away is that you should be evaluated by a board certified plastic surgeon.

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

Thank you for your question. Weight loss is not on the top of my list when it comes to evaluating breast pain. I would definitely  recommend being evaluated your board certified plastic surgeon ASAP. Loss of breast tissue (i.e. From weight loss) can be a cause for rippling.

Roberta Gartside, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Weight gain and weight loss can certainly change the size and appearance of an augmented breast.  In addition with weight loss the implants are proportionately now larger and "heavier" that could lead to discomfort.  The rippling is most  likely secondary to loss of body fat and less implant coverage.  You did not mention your height.  At only 86 pounds, I hope that you are under 5 feet tall, otherwise you might be considered underweight and some of the issues you are experiencing may be secondary to your body frame.   Contact your plastic surgeon for an examination and evaluation.

Can weight loss result in breast implant pain?

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