I also had nipple reconstruction using the left nipple. Two days ago I noticed a lump on the right side of my chest near the implant. I have also started to experience stabbing pains in the right breast. I did have my yearly mammogram, ultrasound and MRI in June 08. Should I be concerned?
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Q: I finished breast reconstruction 9 mos. ago, using tissue from my back and a saline implant.
Answers (2)
1/12/09 3:40pm
It would be quite odd for a breast lump to be there when the tissue originated from the back. It could possibly be scar tissue that has formed around the implant - and the stabbing pains could be what's known as phantom pains, or just post surgical nerve pains, which can happen at anytime as the nerve ending heal. If the lump lasts longer than 2 weeks max, then I would suggest having it checked out by your doctor just to confirm what it actually is.
Good luck!
Angi
2/26/09 11:50pm
I agree with Angi--scar tissue around an implant can cause hardness which feels like a lump. Also, having the scar tissue can cause some pain while the body is adapting to the fact that it can't move as freely as it once did. It is possible for certain people to have a more difficult time with scar tissue than others. I am lucky--I have had three implant replacements and no problem with scar tissue, but some people actually have the body tissue surround the implant and treat it as a foreign object (which it is) and basically attack it. If you continue to have problems go back to your PS and have it checked out. Good luck to you!!!
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By Tree13— Last Modified: 11/13/10, First Published: 01/12/09
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