Could Implants be the cause of shoulder/back and winging scapula?

Question

Over past 4 years have had lingering issues. Implants are 5 years old. I have had been dealing with what I thought was fitness or Ergonomics. Took time off from both - not it. Spent 4 years seeing the three best shoulder doctors, many massages therapist - not your feel good people: many PTs, chiropractors, PRP, dry needling, acupuncture and I have started doing yoga and pilates. It is impacting my life. One doctor said what about your implants? Shoulders are rolled forward people say. Exercises for scapular winging help most. This is truly impacting my life and work.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. There is no accurate way to tell if the pain is related to your implants. Large implants can cause shoulder, neck and back pain. The only real way to tell if the symptoms are related to the implants is to have them removed and see if symptoms improve. I recommend you to visit a board certified plastic surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The weight of implants can certainly affect the neck and shoulders causing muscle strain.  Larger implants are more likely to cause this.  There is no guarantee that removing the implants will relieve your symptoms, but it may.  I recommend visiting with your board certified plastic surgeon for an examination.

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. It is difficult to answer your question without examining you. In general having breast implants adds weight to your breasts and it can impact your posture. It is best to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

I have not heard of breast implants causing winging scapula but definitely if you breast implants are large enough or if you have larger breasts in general, this may cause back posture and back issues.I would recommend you see a board certified plastic surgeon who would be able to tell you if a breast reduction (reducing or removing the size of your implants) would benefit you.  Also if you have your implant information that would be good to bring to your consultation.Hope that helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Philosophical5273,
I understand your concern. It is unlikely that breast implants are the cause of your scapula winging. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after 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

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Could Implants be the cause of shoulder/back and winging scapula?

Answers (7)

Answer: Back Pain and Implants

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