Is it normal for redheads to be more sensitive to pain? I am a redhead and my pain meds aren't working. (photo)

Postoperative discomfort after a breast augmentation can vary widely from person to person.  There is genetic variation in how sensitive each of us is to pain, and the degree of trauma associated with the procedure differs, as well. (even with the same surgeon, as everyone is built differently)  Having said that, redheads do indeed need more anesthetic due to genetic mutations present in many of them -- see the article below.My advice would be to stay on top of your medication. Hydrocodone should be effective.  DON'T take additional Tylenol if your hydrocodone prescription is for a combination drug like Vicodin, as you can overdose on the acetaminophen.  If you have been given a prescription for a muscle relaxant like valium, take that as directed.  If you haven't gotten a muscle relaxant, you might ask your surgeon.  The pain usually subsides significantly within 48 hours.

Hello and thank you for your question. At only 3 days post op, the pain you are describing is normal and has nothing to do with your hair color. I would advise putting a call in to your Plastic Surgeon to discuss the addition of a muscle relaxer such as Valium to help with muscle pain and spasms. He or she might also recommend a stronger pain medication for the next couple of days and then switching back to the hydrocodone.

Reaction to pain and an operation is as individual to you as your fingerprint.  It has nothing to do with your hair color.  Everyone is different IF you are having pain issues it may be necessary to switch you to another medication.  

Post operatve pain has NOTHING to do with your genetics or hair color... Some people as in need of stronger pain medication that others. Ask your surgeon for a stronger narcotic Rx... 

I am not aware of redheads having more pain. They are a slight higher risk of bleeding but if you are in that much pain you should reach out to your surgeon. You can have significant muscle spasms early and Valium can help a lot.

Regardless of your hair color, it is very normal to have pain that lasts for a couple weeks after surgery.  You may try discussing Valium with your doctor as that can help relax the muscles and possibly ibuprofen to help with inflammation.  Your doctor is the most familiar with your current medications and medical history so you'll definitely want to ask before changing any medications.

I am sorry to hear that you're having so much pain.  I do not think your hair color is a factor as many patients with different hair color have significant pain after breast augmentation.Please contact your plastic surgeon.  Often muscle spasm contributes to the pain after breast augmentation and pain causes anxiety which increases pain.In my experience Ativan can be very helpful to reduce this type of pain and hopefully your plastic surgeon will prescribe this for you.