250cc, gel implants, under muscle with fat injections - thoughts on continuing nerve pain 18 months post-op?

Question

I had 250cc gel implants under the muscle with fat injections. My left breast healed wonderful while the right one has ongoing nerve pain on the bottom, side and upper areas. It also didn’t get nipple sensation back while the left one did, right away. I also get a burning / sore feeling under the nipple like the nerve is trying to turn on. Occasional I get zingers in both breast, as there are parts of both that are still numb. My doc says I have to wait and let it continue to heal. Thoughts?

Nancy de Kleer, MD, FRCSC (Plast) · Answer

I'm sorry to hear you are still feeling discomfort after your surgery.  Occasionally we see this happen after breast surgery.
One of the things that can be helpful is massage.  It can train the nerves to start responding properly, instead of with pain.  This can be done yourself, by gently rubbing lotion into the skin of the breast, or a licensed massage therapist who has experience with people who have had breast surgery can be helpful.
Massage and stretching of the muscles at the side of the chest can also be helpful as these muscles can tense up when someone has repeated pain in the breast area, and this can contribute to the cycle of ongoing pain.
With respect to the zingers you are experiencing, they normally occur less frequently with time and then disappear.  I do agree with your surgeon that patience while waiting it out and letting it continue to heal is important, and hopefully these other modalities will also help.
All the best to you,
Dr. Nancy de Kleer

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. When thinking of sub muscular implants there is not a huge concern for nerve pain, based on the anatomy. Sometimes the nerves can stretch to accommodate the bigger breast size and so that usually take about 8-10 months approximately. In the meantime it will create theses changes you are describing. Speak to your plastic surgeon about options and time frame.

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

Sounds like the implant is near one of the nerves especially if you consider you were numb on that side.    What I didn't get from your history is where the incision was placed.  Incisions near the areola sometime bump into the nerve while the incision under the breast is considered to be the safest.  I would consider taking out the implant and letting the area heal.  Then reinserting it through an incision under the breast 6 weeks later... or wait just like your surgeon recommended.  Additionally perhaps get a second opinion from another plastic surgeon.  Always look for "board certified" plastic surgeons who have the ASPS symbol of excellence.   ASPS is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.  Best Wishes!!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the issues you are having with nerve pain.  If the nerve pain is ongoing and not improving at 18 months post op, you are not likely to see improvement in the near future.  You may need to visit with a specialist to discuss options to treat this.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Under6stars,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

250cc, gel implants, under muscle with fat injections - thoughts on continuing nerve pain 18 months post-op?

Answers (7)

Answer: Nerve pain

Answer: Nerve pain

Answer: Nerve pain

Answer: Nerve pain

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250cc, gel implants, under muscle with fat injections - thoughts on continuing nerve pain 18 months post-op?

Answers (7)

Answer: Nerve pain

Answer: Nerve pain

Answer: Nerve pain

Answer: Nerve pain

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.