Why Does It Hurt So Badly Icing my Breasts 5 Days Post Op? (photo)

Question

I had a BA 5 days ago, and today is the first day I really got out and about. I feel a bit of a lump, or dip, in my right breast on the side. I have been icing a lot. When I went to ice tonight, it hurt quite badly! I had to pull the ice pack out. Now it feels very cramped, like a tight muscle that won't relax. Should I grit the pain and ice anyways? Or leave it and relax?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The pectoralis major muscle is likely in spasm 5 days after surgery.  Sometimes, a muscle relaxant can be prescribed to help in the interim.

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

I generally don't recommend ice for breast patients as the implant is so far from the skin surface it does little good nor is it helpful after the point of maximum swelling, after the first 3 days.Discuss this with your surgeon and follow his directions!#iceaftersurgery#breastaugmentation#BA

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and pictures. Having some pain after a breast augmentation, especially submuscular, is common. It should be improving everyday. If you are experiencing new pain without much change in activity level, you should contact your surgeon. Also, the lump you show in your pictures may be a number of things and will be best diagnosed by an examination. As far as icing, it will not help much 5 days after surgery. It is usually only helpful within the first 24-48 hours. Good luck!

Norman Bakshandeh Day, MD, FACS · Answer

I dont ask my patients to use ice for pain relief. I find it can be more harmful than helpful although each surgeon has their own protocol. give your surgeon a call

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Better yet CALL your surgeon so he/she can see this issue. It could be a very minor issue or could be the beginning of a bleed. PLEASE call

Why Does It Hurt So Badly Icing my Breasts 5 Days Post Op? (photo)

Answers (5)