I am one week post op from having 500cc implants under the muscle. Is it normal to feel extreme tightness in both boobs?

Question

Muscle relaxers are doing nothing for the tightness I feel in my chest. Also my right arm feels weird like it’s going to sleep. Should I be worried?

Christopher W. Chase, MD · Answer

It is perfectly normal to feel very tight on both sides one week after a breast augmentation, especially if fairly large implants were placed in fairly small breasts (which would require a higher degree of stretching of the tissue), and if they are under the muscle.Time and massage, along with the muscle relaxers if needed, are the best remedies to soften the breasts and decrease the tight feeling.Also, a "numb" feeling in the arms and/or breasts is somewhat common and should get back to normal as time goes on.Be sure to discuss your concerns with your surgeon, but try not to worry at this point as you are very early out from the surgery.  By 6 weeks you should see a great deal of improvement, but it could take as long as 6 months for the final result.Hang in there!

Jonathan Amspacher, MD · Answer

For the first few weeks this sounds normal as long as they are not increasing in size and they are not significantly different.  If one side is significantly larger than the other then you should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon soon.  Usually taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aleve for a 5-7 days can help with some of these sensations.  When you have any questions it is always a good idea to check in with your surgeon's nurse.  She is usually a good resource and should be able to answer many of your questions and help determine if this is normal or if you need to be seen sooner.  Best of luck on your recovery

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

It is very common for patients to note a sense of pressure post augmentation. This is normal and expected. It can be worsened by concurrent muscle spasm especially in the setting of a larger implant. Depending upon your starting point, 500 cc may represent a significant upsize. This may take some time to settle as the soft tissue stretches.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Joel M. Stewart, Jr., MD · Answer

Your complaint is very common following breast augmentation. It will resolve with more time. Be patient and follow your doctors recommendations.
Best of luck.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

It is normal at this point to feel that your breasts are tight. It can take up to 3 months implants to settle and soften. You are still early post op. Please speak to your surgeon to discuss your concerns.Regards,

I am one week post op from having 500cc implants under the muscle. Is it normal to feel extreme tightness in both boobs?

Answers (5)