Can shoulder and arm fatigue and achiness be normal 4 weeks post op from breast augmentation?

Question

I am 4 weeks post op from getting silicone sub pectoral via periarreolar incision implants. I still have mild pain, particularly on my left side. My left shoulder and down into my arm started feeling very achy and fatigued the last few days. Can this be normal?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Yes, some discomfort and muscle weakness can be present at 4 weeks post op. I allow my patients to begin resuming upper body workouts and strenuous activity with the arms at 6 weeks post op. Initially I advise them to start light and work their way up to more weight because it will take some time for your muscles to adjust. Let your Plastic Surgeon know if you have ongoing issue.All the best

Trent D. Douglas, MD, FACS · Answer

You have posted a wonderful question and the answer is yes - you can still be having surgery related discomfort 4 weeks after surgery.  Every one heals differently and it is not uncommon for one side to be a little more uncomfortable than the other.  Ensure that you have good follow up with your surgeon to make sure the remainder of your recovery is smooth.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and I am sorry to hear of your recovery symptoms.  Because the muscle that your implants are placed under attaches to your upper arm bone it is not uncommon to have shoulder/arm fatigue during your recovery.  This improves with time as the cramping in the muscle relaxes and your tissues stretch.  Voice your concerns to your surgeon, they are in the best position to provide you reassurance.

Anthony J. Wilson, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is very common for there to be shoulder pain following breast augmentation. This is often related to stiffness and lack of use of the shoulder. You should contact your plastic surgeon as he/she may have advice for exercises to help soften the shoulder. It is also important for them to see you and ensure there is not another reason for the shoulder pain such as seroma or hematoma. Best of Luck!

Neal Handel, MD · Answer

Absolutely. Especially when the implant is beneath the pectoral muscle there can be chest and upper extremely discomfort associated with movement. It just takes time – but eventually all the discomfort will subside. In the meanwhile, I think it is important to continue to use the arm and shoulder to avoid stiffness in your joints. Just don't overdo it!

Can shoulder and arm fatigue and achiness be normal 4 weeks post op from breast augmentation?

Answers (6)

Answer: Shoulder Pain after Augmentation

Answer: Shoulder Pain after Augmentation

Answer: Arm and shoulder fatigue after augmentation

Answer: Arm and shoulder fatigue after augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Can shoulder and arm fatigue and achiness be normal 4 weeks post op from breast augmentation?

Answers (6)

Answer: Shoulder Pain after Augmentation

Answer: Shoulder Pain after Augmentation

Answer: Arm and shoulder fatigue after augmentation

Answer: Arm and shoulder fatigue after augmentation

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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.