1 day post-op: should I be worried if one breast is more swollen than the other?

Question

I had breast reduction yesterday morning and one of my breast feels more swollen than the other —Is this something I should worry about?

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Asymmetric breast swelling is common after any procedure. Your condition is likely benign. Without additional information or photographs, potential problems such as a hematoma or infection cannot be ruled out. It would be appropriate to inform your surgeon of your condition and concerns.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Having one breast more swollen than the other is not uncommon right after surgery. However, if it is red, and painful you need to let your surgeon know. It may take several weeks for all the swelling to subside. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear candice584,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast reduction surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Aisha White, MD · Answer

It is common to have differences in swelling from one breast to another after breast reduction surgery.  This is nothing to be worried about as long as you do not notice one breast actively getting larger and larger (which could indicate a hematoma which could be an emergency).  Normal swelling can fluctuate and should resolve over the course of a few months.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

is not uncommon after reduction procedures.  Despite our best intentions, we often do not achieve perfect symmetry.  If your swelling is acute in nature and progressive, that requires a visit to your surgeon.  Usually there is increased pains and often bleeding from your incisions when that happens.  Infections do not occur for several days after your procedure.  But in the end, if there are any concerns, you should have 24/7 access to your surgeon and if not, you should find out why?

Rachel Streu, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Candice and thank you so much for your question! It can be very normal for one breast to be more swollen than the other post operatively. I discuss with my patient's that it can take approximately 3 months for the swelling in the breasts to subside before you will be able to accurately shop for bras at your new size. I would discuss any concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon. Congratulations on your reduction! Best of luck to you!

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

It is not unusual that one breast may be somewhat more swollen than the other the first day post op breast augmentation and it may take several weeks for post op swelling to subside.  If the breast is red, hard or significantly tender, let your surgeon know.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.

1 day post-op: should I be worried if one breast is more swollen than the other?

Answers (7)

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