I have a badly torn pec at my sternum, would I be able to fix this with a mesh?

Question

Male: I have a rare pec tear at my sternum. Originally it was a small noticeable tear but tore much worse after manual “treatment” someone suggested to keep the muscle pliable so it didn’t happen again. Now I have a very noticeable tear about 3-4 inches of my pec at the Sternum that looks cosmetically terrible as well as causes instability. I read in the only case of this I could find that a reconstructive surgeon successfully repaired it with a mesh. Would this be possible to fix?

David Shifrin, MD · Answer

interesting case. Yes you could suture a mesh in place but you would need a visible scar most likely to accomplish this. You could attempt to do it through the axilla but the stitching needed to secure the mesh would be difficult from that approach. Next question for you is if it is a divot from the torn muscle but the rest of the muscle of stable why not just fill in the divot with some fat grafting? That would work well and be an easier procedure for you.Best

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  It is hard to tell without a physical examination what exactly you would benefit from.  I suggest you seek a board certified plastic surgeon and have a consulation to discuss your concerns.  Best of luck!Dhaval PatelDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonChicago Hoffman Estates Orland ParkOakbrook

I have a badly torn pec at my sternum, would I be able to fix this with a mesh?

Answers (2)