Pain along the incision line (inframammary fold incision) 2 weeks post-op on one side only. Should I be worried?

Question

My BA was just under 2 weeks ago and so far the recovery has been going well with very minimal pain and swelling. I noticed the pain along the incision line yesterday and although the pain is not getting worse it has been constant. I have been wearing the compression bra provided by my surgeon and it feels as though the band is rubbing on the incision which is causing the pain/tenderness to feel worse. What can I do to ease the pain? Also does the pain mean the wound is not healing properly?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

After breast augmentation I find no particular advantage to the use of surgical bras. In fact, I find that they can do more harm than good. They hold the implants too high, preventing them from dropping into position. In addition, they can put pressure on the healing breast or the wound. They provide no advantage. If the surgery was performed correctly, external appliances after surgery are unnecessary to achieve the appropriate final implant position. At one month we allow the patients to wear a soft cup bra with no underwire.  At two months, they can wear any bra with a wire without push up.  Before three months it is not wise to buy a whole new set of bras.  By six months, the bra size is not going to change.  You need to try bras on.  Being measured is almost never productive and almost always oversizes.  Find the ones that you like the way they fit.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question...It's hard to say without seeing you in person. Your bra band might be rubbing on your incisions. Try folding some large gauze as padding. However, please see your surgeon if you are still concerned.You can learn more on our social media (Instagram and Snapchat): @realdrsix.
  
Regards,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gigi____93,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It sounds like the compression band is irritating your incision.  Put a clean dressing between your incision and the compression garment and contact your surgeon to discuss the situation.  Your doctor will advise which medication should be taken to address your pain as well.

Reza Rod, MD · Answer

It sounds like you might be right and the compression bra is irritating the incision. It is hard to tell what is going on without pictures or a physical exam. Try to position your band below the incision. Please call your surgeon to express your concerns.

Pain along the incision line (inframammary fold incision) 2 weeks post-op on one side only. Should I be worried?

Answers (8)

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain

Answer: Incision pain

Answer: Incision pain

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Pain along the incision line (inframammary fold incision) 2 weeks post-op on one side only. Should I be worried?

Answers (8)

Answer: Pain

Answer: Pain

Answer: Incision pain

Answer: Incision pain

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.