Is it normal to have an engorged feeling off and on throughout the day as I move around? 7 days post op breast augmentation

Question

I went back to work yesterday which made six days post op. As the day progressed I felt swollen and engorged. It reminded me of when I was breastfeeding and needed to pump. I often get little twitches of pain or mild discomfort as well. I'm not sure if this is normal or if this is what you call zingers. I'm hoping that this is just part of the normal healing process and that my body is just trying to tell me to take it easy. Any advice?

Joseph L. Kiener, MD, FACS · Answer

Provided you are not using your upper extremities, heavy lifting and the like, it is fine to return to light work at 6 days pos-op.  Many of my patients , who have had children , liken the engorged feeling to that during pregnancy and lactation.  The twitches are just nerves returning to function.  follow up with your surgeon and voice your concerns, but your sensations are almost expected following breast augmentation.  Regards.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent breast augmentation. It sounds like you are healing as expected. You may continue to have discomfort over the next several weeks. It typically takes 3 - 6 months for the swelling to subside and the implants to settle. Please follow your plastic surgeons specific post-op instructions regarding level of physical activity and use of a support bra. Hope this helps.

Niki Christopoulos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thank you for your questions.  It is usually completely normal to still have swelling and feelings of fullness or pressure at 7 days postop.  Also normal to feel occasional twitches or sharp shooting pains that are short lived.  Take it easy, everyone heals at their own pace, and be sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon as advised.  Best of luck!

Scott Chapin, MD, FACS · Answer

It is
very common to feel discomfort a week post breast augmentation surgery.  You may experience swelling, the feel of
pressure and mild pain. Although you are mobile, it may be
difficult to lift your arms.  It sounds
that you are healing well but if you have concerns it best to contact your
surgeon. The zingers are the nerves being stretched from the implants.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

At one week out from surgery, it is common to feel swollen. With activity you will often notice more swelling. If concerned, speak with your surgeon.

Is it normal to have an engorged feeling off and on throughout the day as I move around? 7 days post op breast augmentation

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Is it normal to have an engorged feeling off and on throughout the day as I move around? 7 days post op breast augmentation

Answers (6)

Answer: Breast Augmentation Recovery

Answer: Breast Augmentation Recovery

Answer: Breast augmentation at one week

Answer: Breast augmentation at one week

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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.