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Thursday, February 18, 2010 ja asks

Q: Bi-Lateral Mastectomy Discomfort

I had a bi-lateral mastectomy on 12/1/2008 and implants inserted on 3/29/2009. Did not have chemo or radiation. I was informed it could take up to a year for the discomfort to go away. It's almost a year and I am still experiencing lots of discomfort. It occurs every day - all day - whether I wear a bra or not. Have been exercising as well. It hurts around the rib cage area, and the lower part of the underarm. It's so frustrating - will this pain ever go away? Thanks so much!

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Answers (1)
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
2/18/10 6:48pm

Hi - Many women experience quite a bit of discomfort from implants. And no matter what timeframe they give you for healing, we're all indviduals, and will heal at our own rate. That said, a year with pretty severe discomfort sounds unreasonable. I hope you've spoken to your doctor about this. If you feel you're not being heard and not getting help, please ask for a referral to another doctor or surgeon. Good luck - PJH

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2/22/10 2:54pm

Thank you so much for your prompt response.  I will be calling the doctor to set up an appointment to discuss. 

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By ja— Last Modified: 12/25/10, First Published: 02/18/10