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A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cantwell, AK

Can you share your journey with me. I had a double mastectomy, then removal of implants 9 years later due to contracture capsulation. Now 7 weeks post removal experiencing pinching and feels and looks like the tissue is firmly attached to the wall of the chest. I am wondering what is normal. Thank you Debbie

April 15
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A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you so much for your response. It was very helpful and settled my mind. 💕

April 15
MyBCTeam

What sensations are normal 7 weeks after implant removal following capsular contracture?

The pinching sensation and tissue feeling firmly attached to your chest wall at 7 weeks post-removal sounds like it could be related to scar tissue formation and nerve healing. This tightness across the chest is something many MyBCTeam Show Full Answer

What sensations are normal 7 weeks after implant removal following capsular contracture?

The pinching sensation and tissue feeling firmly attached to your chest wall at 7 weeks post-removal sounds like it could be related to scar tissue formation and nerve healing. This tightness across the chest is something many MyBCTeam members experience after breast surgery.

One member described this feeling as a "vice" across the chest and found that gently massaging the entire chest area (avoiding any healing incision lines) helped reduce the tightness over time. Another member explained that this tightness is often fascial pain - the layer over the muscle can get sticky and not slide properly, similar to scar tissue.

The pinching sensation may also be nerve-related. After breast surgery, nerve damage can cause symptoms like:
* Pricking or shooting pain
* Pinching sensations
* Numbness or tingling
* Excessive itching

These sensations can persist as nerves regenerate and heal, which takes time. Since you're only 7 weeks out from surgery, your body is still in the healing process. However, if the pinching is severe, worsening, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's worth checking in with your surgeon.

Ask your doctor about:
* Whether gentle massage might help with the tightness
* Pain management options if needed
* Physical therapy referrals if the tightness persists
* Signs that would indicate you need further evaluation

Many members find that these sensations improve over the following weeks and months as healing continues.

April 15

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