Pain in Breasts when Laying on Side... from Implants?

Question

I had breast augmentation in 2004 when I was 18 - Mentor smooth round moderate saline, periareolar incision, submuscular. At 25, I am now experiencing mild discomfort when laying on my side... it does not wake me up, but makes it difficult to fall asleep. For example: If I lay on my right side, my outer right breast feels 'pinched' and my outer left breast feels somewhat sore as it pulls toward the center (same w/ other side). Otherwise they are perfectly fine, no other pain or visible defect.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	It is possible that the discomfort you are experiencing is related to the breast implants;  I have found that if breast implants displace excessively they may place pressure on the  undersurface of the skin  causing discomfort.

	Also, encapsulation may be a cause of discomfort at this stage ( although this is not necessarily related to position changes). 

	I would suggest that you follow-up with a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon;  the condition and positioning of your breast implants can be evaluated and corrected if necessary.

	 I hope this helps.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

There are so many different causes of pain in the breasts with breast implants. This could be muscle strain, capsular contractures, infection, to name a few.  You should go in for an evaluation ot your doctor.

Michael A. Jazayeri, MD · Answer

I occasionally have patients years after breast agumentation having the same symptoms as you.  Have you started a new activity or sport which uses your arms and chest muscle?  This may be a cause. You may also be developing some hardness in the capsule around the implant.  However, if the pain continues, it is best to have your surgeon evaluate you.  Although rare, it is important to rule out any pathology, such as cancer, which may be causing the pain.

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Your experience is not entirely rare and may very well be related to the implants - and that they are saline ones as opposed to silicone. I have seen patients with occasional discomfort that is related to the breast implants where there is no capsular contracture, but instead, they are thin and have saline implants. It may be that folds and edges poke into the skin creating the pain.

	You should consult with a reputable board certified plastic surgeon in your area who may be able to definitively solve your problem.

Pain in Breasts when Laying on Side... from Implants?

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Answer: Pain in breasts when laying on side

Answer: Pain in breasts when laying on side

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Pain in Breasts when Laying on Side... from Implants?

Answers (4)

Answer: Pain in breasts when laying on side

Answer: Pain in breasts when laying on side

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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