Help! How to deal with IMF tear?

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Ali_R
Ali_R Member Posts: 7
edited July 2019 in Waiting for Test Results

When they moved me to do the biopsy on the table the machine tore the underneath of my breast when they initially compressed it. I think it’s because I have zero loose skin on my abdomen (tummy tuck) so there was no give. Plus the machine seemed to be in an auto clamp mode, not the gradual tightening knob the regular mammogram machines have.

I cried out and they released it... I tried to lift up & pull up skin from my abdomen as much as I could while the clamped back down again, but the damage had been done. I have a nearly 4” long tear right there in the crease :-/ in the greater scheme of things this is minor but it is a constant irritant.

I read to get it to heal it needs to be exposed to air, but I have large, droopy breasts and there’s no keeping the fold open to the air short of an inversion bed. I’ve tried taping my breast up while laying on my back - which is difficult around the biopsied spots (I managed to get them to start bleeding again) - and that kind of works but only with me flat on my back. I’ve been padding a cami with the bralette with gauze. I am thinking maybe a compression type bra or wide ace bandage? All of my regular &sports bras are tight right there (38D).

I’ve been coating it with neosporin and padding it with lots of folded up gauze. Suggestions? Would a compression garment work? How long does this usually take to heal? When I was really sick I ended up with bed sores that took months to go away :(

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  • godisone
    godisone Member Posts: 100
    edited July 2019

    Oh! Ouch! It must be hurting. Good time to talk to your doctor and meanwhile take a leave from work and rest at home. Do not put your breasts under stress. Try wearing one size larger bra, or if that is not possible then go for the last hooks . Neosporin or Betadine powder are really good idea. Why don't you try ice in between, i suppose that would help for quicker healing and please no taping on the wound, it might make things worst as long as the healing is concerned. Also, you can take anti inflammatory tablets like diclofenac (only if your doctor prescribes so) for 3 days. not only will it help you heal faster but will also help you to get rid of the pain. i hope that helps. Good luck and keep posting about your health and results. Fingers crossed.

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  • Sara536
    Sara536 Member Posts: 7,032
    edited July 2019

    Since this happened during a biopsy doesn't the facility or doctor in charge have any responsibility to help you figure this out? 4 in.? Can they sew it up or at least provide whatever sterile gauze or bandages are needed as well as appropriate meds for the duration of the healing? I'm so sorry this happened to you.

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  • Ali_R
    Ali_R Member Posts: 7
    edited July 2019

    Okay, I measured it myself, I’d trusted my husband’s measurement. 🙄 3 1/2 inches... still, sheesh. The clinic tried at first to deny responsibility, I had to spell it out that the Dr & nurse both confirmed it at the time it happened, sigh! Then she told me to go to my PCP for an Rx ointment. Ugh! I asked them if they could call one in, it was close to closing so they’re following up with me this morning. We’ll see.

    Just for clarification, I am not taping over any incisions or the tear itself. I tried doing the model thing and tape it to give my breast enough “support” to expose the fold to air while I lay on my back. So far my only hope is to physically hold my breast with my hand.

    BUT the stereo biopsy looking for DCIS on the left was negative :) (YAY!)Just have the MRI today looking for IBC on the right.

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  • Dani444
    Dani444 Member Posts: 522
    edited July 2019

    This product might help, you could ask your doctor if it would be appropriate for you. I am sorry this has happened to you! I hope you start to feel better soon

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  • godisone
    godisone Member Posts: 100
    edited July 2019

    I hope the DCIS negative result was worth the pain you had to undergo..Get well soon.

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