Is this pain after Breast implant removal normal?

Question

I had breast implants removed a month ago as one of them was ruptured &swollen. The breast that had ruptured is still mis shapen but i'm concerned as it still hurts quite alot. The implants were under the muscle and I have been suffering soreness of the chest which i expected but i've got actual pain in the breast &the scar (although healed nicely) is painful. Is this to be expected? It also feels quite tight and the nipple has a throbbing sensation in it?

Robert Najera, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question about your breast implant removal. It sounds like you may have had a capsular contracture that was also associated with your implant rupture and swelling. It was wise to have the implants removed. I wonder if you also had a removal of the capsule as well. If this is the case, you may have had more trauma during the surgery since this tends to cause more bleeding. I typically like to "suture" the muscle back down to the chest wall if the implant was supectoral. If your surgeon did this, you may be having some muscular pain as well. Nipple sensation changes may also be caused by the capsulectomy and/or blood in the area. I would make sure that you do not have any type of infection that would be evidenced by swelling, redness, fevers, chills, etc.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Some occasional soreness could be expected a month after surgery, but if you are have continuous discomfort it's time for an evaluation.  Return to your surgeon to explore possible reasons for your pain.  A treatment plan can be determined based on the findings.

Matthew Kaufman, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your pain.After implant removal it takes time for your capsule to "scar down".  This may be what your pain is coming from.  As the scar tissue forms it can be painful.  Please see your Plastic Surgeon and be evaluated to assure you don't have an infection.

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

I'm sorry for the pain you're having.  While some degree of discomfort is to be expected, it's a little unusual to have this degree of pain at one month. You should, of course, be assessed by your surgeon in person and, if indicated, do not hesitate to obtain one or more second opinions.There are many possible explanations; surgical trauma to the muscles, remaining capsule, fluid collection, etc but it is difficult to speculate via this forum.  In the absence of acute symptoms (fever, sweats, chills, redness) you have some time to assess and try to address this.  If any of those develop it will have become more urgent.Most likely it will settle down on its own but you'll need that assurance from a surgeon who can see you in person.I hope that this helps and good luck,Dr. Alan EnglerMember of RealSelf100

Is this pain after Breast implant removal normal?

Answers (4)

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