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

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.

Eddie Cheng, MBBS, FRACS (Plastic Surgery) · Answer

Hello Gigi_93,
It's not unusual for one breast to feel more uncomfortable than the other during the early stages of recovery. If your current compression garment is irritating one of your wounds, try swapping it for a different garment (soft bra or crop top) or try a little foam padding between your current garment and the wound. Please also see your qualified plastic surgeon for wound review. Thank you for your question.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Its still early days after your surgery so some pain and discomfort are normal. Your compression bra may be causing some irritation - a sanitary pad stuck to your compression bra may help alleviate the tenderness. If you are concerned or your symptoms increase, return to your surgeon for a review.

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.

Diane I. Duncan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your questions!Without photos it's hard to give specifics however, what I understand from your post tends to be fairly common. Many of my patients will place a small piece of gauze (like and unfolded 2x2), or a silicone scar prevention strip like Silagen over their incisions if their bra tends to rub. If you can reposition your bra so the band doesn't ride that is also an option - this is very normal! Follow up with your surgeon to assess possible wear on the incision and they may have more recommendations upon seeing you.Best of luck!

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

Answers (8)

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