Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation? (photo)

Question

I had a BA almost three weeks ago, and am noticing vertical lines under the crease, particularly when I raise my hands. They are painful, but not excruciating, but do cause some discomfort when I am wearing a bra. I feel a pulling sensation as well where the lines are located. What is the best treatment for this condition, and how long should I continue that treatment? The incision area is also really bumpy when I push down on it, however the skin feels smooth....is this normal?

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for posting pictures, it is very helpful in answering your question.  These lines are from tension from the deep sutures closing the incision.  When you raise your arms, it increases the tension and makes the "string look" under your skin.  These are dissolvable sutures and will disappear as the suture dissolves - likely 4 to 8 weeks.

	 

	Good Luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Your photographs demonstrate Mondor's veins ( inflamed veins). Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to making accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.   The use of anti-inflammatories and warm compresses may be helpful to expedite resolution (check with your plastic surgeon).  Resolution of this inflammatory process may take several weeks/months.Best wishes.

Craig S. Rock, MD, FACS · Answer

The lines you are seeing may be the result of inflammation and clotting of some small veins under the skin which may have been cut during your breast augmentation (a form of "Mondor's disease").  They usually resolve on their own; anti-inflammatories and warm compresses may be helpful once you have healed.  I would recommend that you see your plastic surgeon, who can perform a physical exam and recommend treatment appropriate for you.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

This condition is termed Mondor's disease and is not uncommon after a breast augmentation using the inframammary crease incision.  This requires no specific treatment and will go away on its own.  Typically this takes about 6 weeks to resolve.  Massage and Ibuprofen can help as well.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

These lines are small clotted veins, sometimes called Mondor's disease, though it is not at all a disease. These are not uncommon following breast surgery of any sort. They are self-limited, resolve without treatment, though if painful, anti-inflammatories like alleve are helfpul

	All the best.

Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Bands below a breast augmentation incision

Answer: Bands below a breast augmentation incision

Answer: Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation

Answer: Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Bands below a breast augmentation incision

Answer: Bands below a breast augmentation incision

Answer: Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation

Answer: Vertical Lines Under Crease and Pulling After Breast Augmentation

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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