Can costochondritis be caused by leaky old implants?

It is possible that a ruptured implant could lead to costochondritis.  Ruptured silicone, a tight capsule or inflammation can cause the rib cage to be inflamed and cause pain.  If pain medication does not relieve the pain and a plastic surgeon confirms on physical exam/imaging that there is pain at the level of the ruptured implant than they could diagnose a ruptured implant as the source.  A ruptured implant should be removed anyway but especially when it is causing pain.

Dear Hurting62,Hello and thank you for your excellent question.  I am not familiar with a leaking implant causing costochondritis, but I would not be surprised if removing your implants results in an improvement in your symptoms.  When you do have the implants removed, you should be evaluated for a No-Vertical-Scar, No-Implant breast lift technique to be performed at the same time.  Some people refer to this as the Bellesoma Breast Lift technique. Our technique provides an exceptional breast lift, upper pole fullness, relief from neck and back pain, and no vertical breast lift scar. It uses a woman’s OWN breast tissue to produce an internal suspension technique, without the need for a breast implant. It does not disturb the nipple, areola, or breast glands, so sensation and the ability to lactate is preserved. It uses 3D scanning of your breasts and body to design a procedure specifically designed for YOU, and you alone. Finally, for patients who desire breast enlargement, it can be combined with fat grafting. It is best to answer your question during a face-to-face evaluation, when you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and you can have a physical examination to evaluate for that procedure. I recommend that you find a board-certified, or board-eligible plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of similar patients whom have had this procedure. If you have any questions, call our office for assistance. Good luck!

Best,

Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS

Harvard educated plastic surgeon

Texas “Top Doc” 2017, 2018

RealSelf100

America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, Consumer’s Research Council, 2010 – 2018

BeautyAdvisor Top Contributor