Can I use diuretics to reduce significant oedema after breast augmentation?

Question

I am 2 weeks post op and have significant swelling in the both breast, which causing great amount of tension and pain. I wonder if water tablets might help to reduce the swelling?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. I feel as well that diuretics would reduce overall body fluid for you but not necessarily local breast swelling. I recommend that you talk with your Plastic Surgeon about the options you have for anti-inflammatory medication and other comfort measures. Swelling should be significantly reduced by the two week mark.All the best

Badar Jan, MD · Answer

It's an important question. Swelling after breast augmentation is a normal part of the healing process. The upper pole of the breast stays swollen to some degree for weeks. The more significant the augmentation and placement of the implant underneath the pectoralis muscle both contribute to additional swelling. I do not recommend water pills since they have morning been shown to significantly reduce the time it takes for swelling to resolve and they may be harmful if taken to excess. 
I would also recommend seeing your plastic surgeon to confirm that the swelling is normal. 
Best wishes,
Dr. Jan

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

It is advisable to first consult with your surgeon regarding the medication you might need but diuretics do not have any localised effects as they will only decrease your fluids generally.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question.Diuretics will tend to deplete you bodies fluids and not specifically the breasts.Have a check with your doctor to see if the swelling is excessive.

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

By two weeks post op, your swelling should be going down, not up. The fact that you feel that you need diuretics is worrisome. Schedule an appointment to see your surgeon as soon as you can to be examined in person and make sure that no complication has occurred. Best of luck.

Millicent Odunze Geers, MD, MPH · Answer

After breast augmentation, it is NOT common or normal to have edema that warrants diuretics. You should follow up with your surgeon or primary care physician immediately.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Congratulations on your breast augmentation.  By 2 weeks after breast augmentation and I would expect the swelling around your breasts to have decreased in returning almost to normal.  I do not think diuretics will help.  Please see your plastic surgeon for an examination and diagnosis as to why you have so much swelling.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It is unusual to experience swelling and pain 2 weeks after breast augmentation surgery.  Contact your surgeon for an in person evaluation.

Can I use diuretics to reduce significant oedema after breast augmentation?

Answers (8)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (8)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Should I wait to start my post-op probiotics, until I'm done my antibiotics?

How can I stop my bum from being numb? I'm 3 days post BA.

Saggy breast with large nipples, how can I make them look full and natural? (Photo)

Could my pain be a pinched nerve?

Will wearing a bra day and night slow down a dropping process?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS