When implants are removed with or without capsule, do the lymph nodes stop swelling?

Question

I have 22 year old saline implants under the muscle. I have had swollen painful lymph nodes for almost 2 years in the left axillae. When you physicians remove the implant, do the lymph nodes stop swelling? Or, does the capsule need to be removed to alleviate symptoms? I am struggling between removing the implant vs with or without the capsule. Both implants are intact. The left has a slight contracture with chronic pain on that side. All sonograms, ultrasound and lab work negative.

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Hello!Painful lymph nodes under your arm need to be evaluated sooner rather than later. Lymph nodes are not typically related to a breast implant. They could be a sign of issues in your breast tissue. You should see your doctor about getting a mammogram to check your breasts for any suspicious findings. I see your ultrasound is negative. You may need a fine needle aspirate of the enlarged nodes to see what is going on.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Swollen lymph nodes can occur for many reasons.  Having the implants removed with or without the capsule many not have an impact on the swelling.  I recommend beginning by looking for the cause behind the swollen lymph nodes by visiting with your PCP.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body.  Your PCP can determine the cause of the swelling. Following infection, lymph nodes can remain permanently enlarged.  They should be small, have a rubbery consistency, and non-tender. If the cause is not associated (sonogram, ultrasound, and lab work negative) with the 22 year old saline breast implants , there is no need to remove them with or without the capsule.

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear Kim_BeeThank you for your question!  I am sorry that you are having difficulty .  Were your implants silicone?  Have you had an ultrasound of the lymph nodes? MRI of the Breasts?With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

The cause of the swelling should be determined or at least everything else should be ruled out.  If the swelling of the lymph nodes is the result of your breast implants then a removal would be all that is needed.  A capsulectomy is not necessary unless the capsule has thickened and leaving it could lead to issue with fluid accumulation.I would discuss this further with your surgeon and make certain that everything else has been ruled out for the cause of the swelling.

When implants are removed with or without capsule, do the lymph nodes stop swelling?

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When implants are removed with or without capsule, do the lymph nodes stop swelling?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast contouring breast implants breast capsule

Answer: Breast contouring breast implants breast capsule

Answer: Breast Implant Removal

Answer: Breast Implant Removal

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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