I feel off one week after a breast reduction, is this normal?

Question

Since my breast reduction 6 days ago I’ve had ups and downs. Some really bad pain and some days where I felt totally normal. Today on the 6th day I actually feel the worst I’ve felt in a week. It’s the lower of the lows since I’ve had surgery. My wounds are pulling, I’m nauseous, I’m lightheaded, and I’m severely anxious and depressed. I feel like my eyes can’t focus and very hopeless. I have a post op appt. today.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question!
It is normal to have ups and downs after having surgery. You body is adjusting. With every day that passes you should feel better. Speak to your surgeon with these concerns. Take care of yourself, and take the time needed to heal. Best wishes!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.  I am sorry to hear about the "depression" you are experiencing. It is, however, not uncommon to experience what you are experiencing at this time in your recovery. Severe emotional “ups and downs” are common after all types of surgery. Requiring reassurance (that what you are experiencing is normal) is also common and to be expected. The specific cause of the "postoperative depression" is not known;  in my opinion, it is probably multifactorial ( factors such as stress, pain, unanticipated length of recovery, being away from usually enjoyed activities/people…).
I would suggest that you do your best to occupy your mind with activities that you enjoy. For example, for our patients experiencing these types of post operative “sadness”, I suggest they walk outdoors (fresh air), see movies, read books they enjoy, seek family/friends' support… Let your plastic surgeon know how you are feeling, especially if you do not see/feel improvement.
Keep in mind that the worst part of the recovery is over (and you have yet to enjoy the outcome of the procedure performed.
 Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with longer-term.

Janet Turkle, MD · Answer

Dear Feelingblah,Mood swings and days of feeling less than your best is not uncommon after any surgery. Pain meds can affect mood and interfere with REM sleep, both of which can partially account for some of the issues you describe. The nerves have been irritated. The healing process can result in tightness and pulling. Please see your doctor to ensure that there aren’t any other issues. Your description of how you are feeling is not unusual. Hang in there!  It does get better.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

You have had a major operation so it would not be unusual to feel lousy. That said, we always have to rule out other causes, such as a virus, which would be unrelated to the surgery. Breast reduction is not typically associated with severe pain.  If you are the uncomfortable, reach out to your surgeon. Best wishes.

I feel off one week after a breast reduction, is this normal?

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I feel off one week after a breast reduction, is this normal?

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