Is this normal for the muscles to pull under the breast and look striated? (photo)

Question

When I lift my arms, the muscles/ligaments pull under my scar - see picture. Is this normal and will it go away?

Benjamin Mandel, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. In reviewing your photograph, it appears that you have developed inflammation of superficial veins (Mondor's disease). This is a benign condition which can occur after breast surgery; the tethering "cords" generally resolve over time (weeks to months). Some patients use NSAIDS (such as ibuprofen) and warm compresses for comfort. A definitive diagnosis, however, is not possible without performing a formal physical examination. I suggest that you meet with your surgeon to discuss your concerns. Best of luck!

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I have seen this before. It is likely irritation and inflammation of veins under the skin, causing them to become firm. When I have seen it occur, it goes away on its own. If you have specific questions, make sure to reach out to your plastic surgeon directly. Congratulations on your surgery!

Jane M. Rowley, MD · Answer

OK, it sounds horrible, but it is just a superficial thrombophlebitis, an inflammation of the superficial veins under the chest skin.  It will resolve, it is not uncommon, and sometimes warm compresses and anti inflammatory meds can help speed the resolution.  Good luck, Jane

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Notso50,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. Based on your photos, it looks like Mondors cords, which can appear after BA. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after 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

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Notso50. I appreciate your concern, however I have seen cords such as yours in patients after breast augmentation and they should resolve over the next several months. Follow up with your plastic surgeon to confirm my advice. Good luck.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Not uncommon to have these show around 3 weeks after breast augmentation surgery. They are called Mondors cords. They usually disappear around the 6th week after surgery.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Daniel Schmid, MD · Answer

As others have noted this is an inflammation of the veins in the skin under the breast.  It is a common condition after any type of breast surgery.  It is treated with warm compresses, ibuprofen, and watchful waiting.  Follow up closely with your plastic surgeon.  Good luck!

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and everyone here is in agreement... and if you asked your surgeon when you first appreciated this, you would have got the same answer.  Hopefully it is diminishing already... and my patients are told they can possibly accelerate resolution with warm compresses. Hope the rest is excellent!

Anthony Barabas, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Thanks for your question. This appears to be Mondor's disease which is superficial thromboplebitis of your chest wall veins which has appearance of cords under your breast as in your photos. This usually resolves in 6-9 months on its own with no intervention required.

Is this normal for the muscles to pull under the breast and look striated? (photo)

Answers (9)

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