Could pressure from a back massage cause damage to 2 year old breast implants?

Question

I’m 2.5 years post op from breast lift with implants. I had the Motiva round gel implants. I had a massage yesterday and the massage therapist pressed down hard on my upper back with his forearms. Today my breasts are very sore, the right more than the left. It feels like sharp pain. Should I be worried about damage to the implants or surrounding tissue?

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Always best to check with your surgeon, if possible, as your surgeon knows how you started and what was done. Otherwise, an in person exam by a plastic surgeon and a history of what was done is needed to answer your question. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., US

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear theressa17,

implants have a strong capsule so it is unlikely that massage can cause an injury. I understand your concern. 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 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

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

It would certainly be unusual to have a breast implant break under these conditions.  They are very rugged.  If the soreness does not go away soon, it might be a good idea to see your plastic surgeon.

Vivian Ting, MD · Answer

Is there any bruising, implant displacement or malposition, or swelling? Tears in the capsular scar tissue that form around implants from external pressure can cause mild bleeding or pain as the tissue pulls on nerves and muscle fibers. New implants are less likely to be damaged by pressure but it is still possible if you had calcified capsules around the implants that can push into aging implant shells with enough pressure. This often happens in much older implants undergoing mammographic plate compression.To find out whether your implants were ruptured you can have an MRI without contrast to check implant integrity. If there are no external signs of trauma, you may want to try some tylenol or ibuprofen and rest (and find a gentler masseuse). If you notice any increasing firmness of the implant you should get imaging and if no rupture is present maybe consider Accolate to prevent capsular contracture.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You were probably bruised some internally, but you could ask for an ultrasound to check the implants. usually, it takes more pressure to break them.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

No, a back massage is unlikely to cause damage to breast implants that are two years old, provided that the massage is not overly aggressive or focused directly on the breast area. Breast implants are typically well-secured within the breast tissue and are designed to withstand normal everyday movements and pressure.
However, if the massage involves deep pressure or direct force applied to the chest area, it could potentially lead to discomfort or temporary displacement of the implants. It's always a good idea to avoid any significant pressure on the chest for a period of time after surgery, particularly in the initial healing phases.
If you have concerns or experience any pain, it's best to consult with your surgeon to ensure everything is healing properly.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is unlikely that any permanent damage was caused to your implants from the massage pressure used.  Since you are sore be sure to rest the area.  You can take NSAIDS if not allergic.  See your surgeon if symptoms don't improve in a few days.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

You don’t have sensation in your implants.
If you have a discomfort, it’s because of your tissues being contused , not your implants rupturing which is highly unlikely.
Mats Hagström MD

Could pressure from a back massage cause damage to 2 year old breast implants?

Answers (8)

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