August 31, 2025 | Breast Augmentation
3 minute read
Over half a million breast augmentation procedures take place every year. While most patients enjoy a smooth recovery, some may experience pain or discomfort after their procedure. This blog will explore potential causes of breast implant soreness and offer guidance on how to address it.
Table of Contents
- What Is Breast Implant Soreness?
- What Causes Breast Implant Pain?
- What To Do About Breast Implant Pain
- Learn More About Breast Implants in Orange County
What Is Breast Implant Soreness?
Immediately following breast augmentation, soreness, discomfort, swelling, and bruising are to be expected. Gradually, as implants settle and healing progresses, the body acclimates to your new breast implants. With proper aftercare and regular follow-up visits, most patients enjoy long-lasting, complication-free results.
However, soreness that develops outside the usual recovery window may signal another issue. Cosmetic breast surgeries may cause the following symptoms:
- Chest discomfort
- Pain in or around the armpit
- A “heavy” feeling in the chest
- Nipple sensitivity or discomfort
- Prickling or shooting pain
- Persistent itching
If you are past the recovery stage and experiencing breast implant soreness, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a highly qualified plastic surgeon right away to investigate what’s going on. Contact UCI Plastic Surgery today to meet with one of our highly skilled plastic and reconstructive surgeons.
What Causes Breast Implant Pain?
There are several causes of breast implant pain, including breast-implant-specific causes and general systemic causes. These may include:
- Capsular Contracture: An implant complication that involves the thickening and tightening of the natural scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant, causing the breasts to feel hard and painful.
- Seroma: A lump caused by fluid buildup that can cause discomfort and swelling.
- Implant Rupture: Ruptured saline implants are immediately noticeable as the saltwater solution drains into the body. Ruptured silicone implants may go undetected for months or years and can contribute to other issues like capsular contracture, breast lumps, and changes in breast shape.
- Implant Position Change: If an implant shifts out of position—often due to trauma or changes in position that can occur over time—it can cause pain and discomfort. Implant malposition can make the breast appear asymmetrical or distorted.
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Inflammation or infection can cause the lymph nodes to become inflamed and swollen, putting pressure on the surrounding tissues and causing pain.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): A collection of symptoms—including fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, digestive issues, and skin rashes—that some women report after getting breast implants. Breast implant removal is often recommended for patients experiencing BII.
What to Do About Breast Implant Pain
If you are experiencing signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, discharge, or fever, seek medical attention immediately. For all other cases of breast implant pain, consult a highly qualified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment.
Many patients choose to undergo breast revision surgery to correct problems or issues with the initial breast augmentation surgery. During revision, your surgeon will remove the old implants and scar tissue and place new implants. They may use tissue matrix to hold the implants in place more securely.
At UCI Plastic Surgery, our surgeons specialize in both primary and secondary breast surgeries, offering advanced solutions for implant problems or issues.
Learn More About Breast Implants in Orange County
If you are experiencing breast implant soreness, you don’t have to live with the discomfort. Meet with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons about your options. Call our office today at (714) 456-3077 (Orange), (949) 999-2411 (Costa Mesa), or (714) 456-3077 (Tustin) or complete the online contact form to get started.