2 Weeks After Breast Aug, One Breast Is Healing Much Slower than the Other, Should I be Worried?

Question

Im 17 days post op. Bruising only developed at 10 days post op on my right breast. Had quite a bit of bleeding on incision site (gone through 9 adhesive pads in 2 days). Both PS and nurse said bruising n bleeding are ok. But my right breast is healing much slower. It barely dropped while my left breast appears "healed". Could it be CC or just healing slow due to swelling n bruising? How can I tell? I didn't really message them, is it too late to do it now? I'm so worried and scared, Pls help

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Everything is probably fine.

	For the vast majority of patients, one breast heals slower than the other side. Typically but not always it is either on the dominant hand side especially if the implant is below the muscle, or if you are a side sleeper, the side that is dependent. Often there is no rhyme or reason. 

	See your Plastic Surgeon re: his/her massage timing. For my patients I recommend starting whenever it is comfortable for them - typically  2-3 weeks after surgery.

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank
you for your question. I have included some typical expectations of breast
surgery recovery and signs to watch for following breast augmentation:
Stiffness, swelling
and bruising in the chest region: These are normal experiences as the skin,
muscles and tissue heal. Pain medication and muscle relaxants will help you
cope with any discomfort. Consistent sharp pain should be reported to your
board-certified surgeon.Hypersensitivity of
nipples or lack of sensitivity: This is normal and will gradually resolve over
time.A mild to severe itchy
feeling of the breasts is possible as healing progresses. An antihistamine like
Benadryl can help to alleviate severe, constant itchiness. If the skin becomes
red and hot to the touch, contact your board-certified surgeon
immediately.Asymmetry, the breasts
look different, or heal differently: Breasts may look or feel quite different
from one another in the days following surgery. This is normal. No two breasts
in nature or following surgery are perfectly symmetrical.Discuss returning to
work with your board-certified surgeon, in our office it is typically 3-5
days post-surgery but you may not overexert yourself or do any heavy lifting.You may resume
exercise and your normal routine at six weeks unless your surgeon advises
otherwise.It is important to remember that everyone recovers differently and each breast heals at its own rate. Please follow up with your board-certified plastic surgeon regarding any concerns or question throughout your recovery. Good luck.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

It's not unusual for one side to heal faster than the other and, if you swelled and bruised more on one side, then it will take longer for it to resolve.  Continue to followup with your plastic surgeon and try not to be scared at this point.

2 Weeks After Breast Aug, One Breast Is Healing Much Slower than the Other, Should I be Worried?

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2 Weeks After Breast Aug, One Breast Is Healing Much Slower than the Other, Should I be Worried?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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