Is it normal for one boob to hurt way more then the other? (photos)

Question

If it wasn't for my left boob, I would have been off of percosets after day 2. Everyday it feels very tight and hard inside of my chest and is sometimes hard to breathe. It also hurts when I go for walks, and it feels better when I hold it in place. My right one is still hard but is not uncomfortable for me one bit. Is this normal for the first week post op?

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Yes, it is extremely common for each breast to heal/drop at a different rate. However, the pain in the left breast should continue to improve with time. If it does not, schedule an appointment to see your surgeon. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

IN most cases of breast augmentation one breast will hurt a little more than the other, in my experience.  Be sure to discuss with your own surgeon about how this applies to you, and whether they have any special concerns in your case.

Joel M. Stewart, Jr., MD · Answer

Unfortunately, this type of pain is common following breast augmentation. Because you have two breasts, pain is rarely the same between the two after surgery. Swelling seems a little more on the left in your pictures and perhaps this could be contributing to the difference in your pain level.I would let your surgeon know that you are experiencing pain, and they will probably want you to come in to be examined for any problems that might have developed since you were last seen.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend most appropriate treatment plan at this time.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

David R. Alfonso, MD, FACS · Answer

It is normal to have some asymmetry of the breasts after augmentation and often times one side hurts more than the other.  This usually subsides after a few weeks. If things seem to be getting worse rather than better make sure you follow up with your surgeon

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question and photos. Yes, it can be normal to have one side hurt more than the other or show more bruising, especially in the first couple of weeks post op. However, if you feel you are having difficulty breathing, shortness of breath or pain with breathing in- you need to contact your Plastic Surgeon right away to rule out a more serious complication .All the best

Johnny Chung, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very normal to have pain in one breast with breast augmentation. I recommend following your plastic surgeons advice on massage and surgical bra.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

It is more common than not that one side is more painful, and usually there is no explanation. However, one explanation is a hematoma, so most surgeons request a call if one side is much more painful, particularly if it is larger. I can't tell much from the posted photos. I would suggest a call to your surgeon.All the best.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Yes, sometimes one breast is more sore than the other.  If the volumes also appear very different and the volume looks to have changed, then there might be a concern that you developed a hematoma.  If at all concerned, you should touch base with your surgeon.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, thereOur body is asymmetric between left and right.  Depending on the surgery, tightness of the each muscle, and implant size, you can have different healing  in regards to pain, implant settling, and shape.Although the limited view of your breasts do not reveal abnormality, it would be best to follow up with your plastic surgeon.Good luck with your recovery.

Is it normal for one boob to hurt way more then the other? (photos)

Answers (12)