Is it possible to not take any pain meds post-op of breast augmentation?

Thank you for your question.  As each patient's recovery experience is unique, one cannot say if you will need to utilize pain medication post operatively.  However, some patients have found that taking Tylenol instead of narcotic pain medication works in reducing post operative pain.  Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve and all other NSAID medication are not an option as a pain medication as they have blood thinning agents in their ingredients.Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

Thank you very much for this interested question.Theories are found: There plastic surgeons do not provide any anti-inflammatory painkillers because they interfere with the first step of wound healing, the inflammatory phase. Furthermore, some surgeons routinely use them. In my practice, I individualize the patients according to specific needs of each.As such, if I notice a patient with abnormal swelling i prescribe inflammatory painkillers.On the other hand, if the recovery process is normal, I prescribe painkillers medication (not antiinflamatory) the first week p.o. and henceforth only if the pain comes.Finally I recommend accompany the paikillers with a gastric protector to prevent damage to the stomach.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Hello, the amount of pain medication required after breast augmentation varies considerably between patients, but most of my patients will take something more effective than ibuprofen for at least a few days.  If you are not a fan of narcotic medications, there are stronger anti-inflammatory medications (like ketorolac), muscle relaxants (methocarbamol), and other OTC meds like Tylenol.  Your PS may also inject local anesthetic at the time of surgery (or insert a pain pump).  There are many options.