Is it possible to have a muscle stitched too tight around my breast implant incision?

Question

I had a breast augmentation 3 weeks ago and I noticed when I bend back (causing my skin to stretch) a tendon or muscle pops up. It’s very tight and makes me wonder if something was stitched back too tightly. Can this be resolved? Will the muscle stretch out over time or will I need surgery to correct it?

Erez Sternberg, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. As always, any questions or concerns three weeks after surgery should be addressed by your plastic surgeon. By your description, it sounds like you have what’s called Mondor’s chord. This is an inflammatory condition after breast augmentation surgery that spontaneously will resolve with time. Warm compress and gentle massage is all that is needed. If the breasts are looking fine otherwise, I would see a plastic surgeon to make sure he or she agrees.

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Without examining you or having access to your operative record it is not possible to provide you with an accurate response. The best advice is to get evaluated by your surgeon. Best of luck to you.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on your augmentation.  Without an in-person examination of your tissues, or full series of photographs, it is difficult to offer definite advice, so best to be seen by your surgeon, as during a normal augmentation the muscle is not sutured.  This may be the result of residual fluid within your implant pocket, irritation/cramping of your chest muscle, or you may have broken one of the stitches used to close your surgical incision.  Hope this helps.

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your surgery!

It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.

It is crucial to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is important for healthy results.

It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place. Should a revision cross your mind, it is best to wait at least 6 months to a year before doing so.

Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).

Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.

During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

Is it possible to have a muscle stitched too tight around my breast implant incision?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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Is it possible to have a muscle stitched too tight around my breast implant incision?

Answers (4)

Answer: Recommendation

Answer: Recommendation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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