Difficulty breathing after breast surgery

Question

Hi! Im 26 and I had my second breast lift with implants three months ago. Since 2 weeks after my surgery, I started having trouble breathing, really bad, it has caused me panic attacks. I’ve gotten tested for everything. D-dimer for clots, multiple chest X ray, spirometries, everything says I’m fine. I’ve been on treatment for allergic asthma for a month and a half because we thought it could be that but it’s not helping at all. Could it be the weight of the implants? Thank you for your answe

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cinthyagb,

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

Ellen Ozolins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The weight of your implants could contribute, but other possibilities, such as muscle tightness, capsular contracture, or psychosomatic effects, should also be considered. Large implants can exert additional pressure on the chest wall or diaphragm, making breathing feel harder, especially when lying down. Muscle tightness may lead to a sensation of restricted breathing, especially during deep inhalation. Early capsular contracture (formation of scar tissue around the implant) could give a feeling of tightness or pull in the chest. Also, surgical trauma or swelling may irritate nerves around the chest, causing sensations that mimic breathing difficulty. Work closely with your surgeon to exclude all these causes, share your symptoms, ask for an evaluation of the implant size and placement, and request imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to check for capsular contracture or other structural issues. If your current surgeon cannot identify the issue, consult with another surgeon for another perspective.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you are experiencing difficulty breathing when laying on your back and your implants are large, they may be contributing.  It sounds as if you are following the appropriate channels to ensure there is no pulmonary embolism which is important.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Unlikely the weight of the implants are related. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have large implants, you may be feeling the weight on your chest. You did not state the size of your implants. If they are large, over 450 cc's, consider going smaller.

Difficulty breathing after breast surgery

Answers (6)

Answer: Always best to be checked in person by your surgeon as well

Answer: Always best to be checked in person by your surgeon as well

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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

Difficulty breathing after breast surgery

Answers (6)

Answer: Always best to be checked in person by your surgeon as well

Answer: Always best to be checked in person by your surgeon as well

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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