Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
August 18, 2024
 · 
Reactions
MyBCTeam

Experiencing pain and tightness in the chest area after a double mastectomy and having tissue expanders is not uncommon. Here are some insights from the knowledge base:

- Chest Tightness: Many people describe this sensation as feeling like a "vice" around the chest. This tightness can be due to the effects of surgery Show Full Answer

Experiencing pain and tightness in the chest area after a double mastectomy and having tissue expanders is not uncommon. Here are some insights from the knowledge base:

- Chest Tightness: Many people describe this sensation as feeling like a "vice" around the chest. This tightness can be due to the effects of surgery, radiation therapy, or the presence of tissue expanders.
- Massage: Gently massaging the chest area (avoiding the suture line) can help alleviate some of the tightness. Using pure coconut oil can make the massage more pleasant and help moisturize the skin.
- Physical Therapy: Consulting a licensed physical therapist can be beneficial. They can help develop an exercise routine to reduce tightness and improve range of motion.
- Comfortable Bras: Wearing non-restrictive bras, such as bralettes, can help manage day-to-day discomfort.
- Medical Consultation: If the pain and tightness are severe or persistent, it's important to speak with your oncologist, surgeon, or primary care doctor. They can rule out other potential causes and recommend appropriate treatments, such as pain medications or nerve blocks.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatments or exercises.

August 18, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Same as Michelle.....Double mastectomy with tissue expanders. I kept them almost 9 months. They were uncomfortable the whole time, especialIy at night. After the exchange surgery, the relief was immediate. It's been a year since my implants were placed and I don't really think about them as I go through my day. Like Michelle, I had radiation while the expanders were in. I had 31 sessions over full chest area. Hang in there.

August 18, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Hang in there TinaRay! I was in a similar boat, bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders for 6 months - they are awful. I had pain and discomfort daily, and after radiation the skin was so tight and the expander started to migrate upwards. I was extremely nervous/scared/traumatized when returning to have the expanders exchanged for implants, but to my surprise it was instant relief/improvement. You can do incredibly hard things, you are proving it daily. Be patient with your body, and know it will get better. Sending hugs your way

August 18, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

I’m one month post DMX and the tightness is so uncomfortable. I’m looking for ways to massage around my expanders.

August 20, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you. Started getting frustrated and wondered about the implants.

August 18, 2024

Related Questions

View All
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Phoenix, AZ

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bradenton, FL

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Coventry, RI