Staples utilized in revision for pocket failure (Photo)

Question

49 yrs, 173 lbs,5’1”. 7 breast surgeries in 3 yrs. Recently found out on X-ray that I have multiple staples from axilla down ribs and across ribs. Nothing on OR report about them. Severe pain since last revision for pocket failure/ caps contraction. Being told nothing can be done but removing implants. Told staples used for bleeders. Ignoring my concern and issues with the staples. Uncertain where to start.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Those are not staples but are clips.  These clips are used to clip off vessels to prevent them from bleeding.  This is a frequently used technique.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

What it looks like is that those clips were used to obtain hemostasis. It is very common practice during the mastectomy part of the procedure. Some plastic surgeons will used them but that is rare, it is more often used during the mastectomy by the breast surgeon. I do agree, you really can not remove them and the cause of your pain should not be centered around the clips. I would want to know if you have capsular contracture which may be causing the pain.

Hope that helps.

Hope that helps.

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