Pectoral/chest pain 2 years after explant/lift with muscle repair, any advice?

Question

2 years after explant/lift with pec muscle repair. Chest pain that radiates to between the shoulder blades. Cleared by cardiologist. Anytime I do anything that uses my pec muscle I am in terrible pain with heart palpitations. Any advice ? My surgeon retired :(!

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear you are experiencing such discomfort and challenges following your surgery. Please see the attached video that answers your question in detail. Some suggestions are to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon, get a physical therapy evaluation, seek a pain management specialist, consider gentle yoga (it may improve flexibility and circulation without straining the chest muscles).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear CWeldin1,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest meeting with a pain doctor to see if injections of the nerves might help. However, the palpitations may possibly be due to something else.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Persistent pectoral or chest pain two years after an explant with a lift and muscle repair can have several possible causes. Here are some potential reasons and advice on what to do next:
Possible Causes:
1.	Scar Tissue (Capsular Contracture or Adhesions) – Scar tissue can form after surgery and sometimes pull on surrounding structures, causing discomfort.
2.	Nerve Sensitivity or Damage – Nerves can take a long time to heal, and some may become hypersensitive or irritated.
3.	Muscle Weakness or Imbalance – After muscle repair, tightness, weakness, or improper healing could lead to pain, especially with certain movements.
4.	Residual Inflammation or Fatigue – Chronic inflammation in the chest wall or surrounding tissues may cause lingering pain.
5.	Costochondritis – Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone can mimic post-surgical pain.
6.	Postural Issues – Changes in breast weight and support after explant/lift surgery may have altered your posture, causing strain in your chest muscles.
What You Can Do:
✅ Consult Your Surgeon – Your surgeon or a specialist can check for scar tissue, muscle issues, or complications.
✅ Physical Therapy – A therapist can help with strengthening and stretching exercises to improve muscle function and reduce discomfort.
✅ Massage Therapy– Helps break down scar tissue and relieve tension.
✅ Anti-Inflammatory Approaches – Over-the-counter NSAIDs, heat therapy, or supplements like turmeric may help.
✅ Breathing Exercises & Posture Correction – Deep breathing and posture-focused exercises can reduce strain on your chest muscles.
✅ Imaging (Ultrasound, MRI, or X-ray) – If pain persists, imaging can rule out complications like scar tissue buildup, muscle damage, or nerve entrapment.
Consult with your original surgeon or trusted physician.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Since your surgeon retired she/he will typically give their cases to another colleague to follow.  You may want to see that surgeon as they will have access to your records if you don't have a copy.  Further testing if necessary can be ordered by that physician.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Would you describe is not typical.
There’s not much a plastic surgeon is going to be able to do to help you.
I suggest you consult with a neurologist or pain specialist.
I’ve not had patients describe pain radiating between the shoulder blades after any kind of breast surgery. This tells me your pain may not be related to your previous surgery.
On a separate note, I don’t believe you can really repair the pectoralis muscle during plantation, though I suppose there are doctors who believe it can be done.
I don’t think you’re going to find a satisfactory answer from the plastic surgery community. I may be wrong. 
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Pectoral/chest pain 2 years after explant/lift with muscle repair, any advice?

Answers (6)

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