Sore Breasts 5 Months Post Augmentation

Question

I had a breast augmentation 5 months ago, over the muscle. I still find it difficult to sleep and wake up feeling achey, as if I have pulled pectoral muscles. The pain subsides as the day goes on but I am still getting the odd sharp and shooting pain throughout the day. I got 315cc, from a cup to c/d cup. I was wondering if this is something I should worry about as I thought 5 months on it wouldnt still be painful?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

You should see your surgeon about this. While it could be just nerve regeneration, it's better to get a physical examination done.

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

Experiencing soreness in the breasts several months after breast augmentation surgery is not uncommon. There are several potential reasons why you might be experiencing this discomfort:
1.	Normal Healing Process: Even several months after surgery, it's possible to experience occasional discomfort as your body continues to heal and adjust to the implants. Soreness or tenderness might occur as the tissues around the implants settle and stretch.
2.	Muscle Strain: Depending on the type of implants (submuscular or subglandular placement) and the surgical technique used, there might be ongoing strain on the chest muscles, especially if you engage in strenuous physical activities that involve the chest muscles.
3.	Capsular Contracture: In some cases, scar tissue (capsules) that naturally forms around breast implants may tighten and contract, causing discomfort or changes in breast shape. Capsular contracture can occur at any time after surgery but is more common within the first year.
4.	Infection or Complication: Although less common several months post-surgery, complications such as infection or implant-related issues could cause breast soreness. Symptoms of infection may include redness, warmth, swelling, or fever. If you suspect an infection or complication, it's crucial to contact your plastic surgeon promptly.
5.	Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those associated with menstruation, pregnancy, or hormonal medications, can sometimes cause breast soreness or tenderness.
If you're experiencing persistent or concerning breast soreness, it's essential to follow up with your plastic surgeon for an evaluation. They can assess your symptoms, examine your breasts, and determine the underlying cause of the discomfort. Depending on the diagnosis, they can recommend appropriate treatment or interventions to address your symptoms effectively.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

There is a huge variability in the resolution of post surgery pain and other symptoms after breast augmentation. Five months is on the high end to still be bothered by anything other that the occasional twinge of discomfort.

	Sometimes using anti-inflammatories will help, and trying a long acting one such as alleve will take the edge off and let you sleep. 

	A visit to your surgeon is in order, though not too likely to find a cause, unless that cause is capsular contracture.

	Thanks for your question, best wishes for continued recovery.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

In this case it is difficult to make an accurate diagnosis without a good in-person exam. You may be experiencing normal healing, which includes the formation of scar tissue. This process takes roughly 12 to 18 months to occur and may not occur evenly in both breasts. During that time the scar tissue can make you feel tight and one can experience these sharp and shooting pains.
	In any case I would recommend a close follow up with your plastic surgeon to address your concerns. I hope this helps.

	Good luck.

Sore Breasts 5 Months Post Augmentation

Answers (4)