Did I pull a muscle or is there something wrong with my old implant?

I got over-the-muscle silicone breast implants 11 years ago. My breasts appear fine and I haven't encountered any problems in 11 years. Over the weekend I painted fences, then a few days ago I awoke to a very mild discomfort in my right breast. It feels almost like a pulling feeling that tends to be more noticeable when stretching or lifting something. No swelling. I feel less discomfort when wearing a sports bra. Is this just a pulled muscle or is there something wrong my with implant?

Answers from doctors (1)


More About Doctor Harry Glassman, M.D.

Published on Aug 03, 2018

Your pain is most likely related to your chest muscles. If so, it should subside with rest. If the pain persists and is localized specifically to your breast, you should have an MRI in order to determine whether your implant has leaked. Usually this is a painless occurrence; however, it can in some instances be painful. Keep in mind that the average life span of silicone implants is about 15 years. That does not rule out the possibility that an eleven year old implant has lost its integrity. Even if it has, it is not a health hazard and will not affect you systemically.

Answered by Harry Glassman, M.D. (View Profile)

Your pain is most likely related to your chest muscles. If so, it should subside with rest. If the pain persists and is localized specifically to your breast, you should have an MRI in order to determine whether your implant has leaked. Usually this is a painless occurrence; however, it can in some instances be painful. Keep in mind that the average life span of silicone implants is about 15 years. That does not rule out the possibility that an eleven year old implant has lost its integrity. Even if it has, it is not a health hazard and will not affect you systemically.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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