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Hidden Pain After Mastectomy?

Chronic postsurgical pain affects many patients but is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.

  • By

  • Brett Kelman

  • Amy Maxmen

  • April 6, 2026

  • 10 min

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  • 1

    Post-mastectomy pain syndrome (PMPS) affects many women, with estimates suggesting over 50% experience chronic pain after surgery.

  • 2

    PMPS is often poorly defined and inconsistently diagnosed, leaving patients like Sophia Bassan struggling to find relief.

  • 3

    Legislation like the Advancing Women’s Health Coverage Act could improve care for PMPS by ensuring insurance coverage for chronic pain.

  • 4

    Surgeons often focus on cosmetic outcomes rather than addressing chronic pain, leading to dismissive attitudes towards patients' symptoms.

  • 5

    The rise in mastectomy surgeries has increased awareness of PMPS, highlighting the need for better pain management and treatment options.

Original Source(s)

Hidden Pain After Mastectomy?

  • by Brett Kelman, Amy Maxmen

  • April 6, 2026

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