How Long Will It Take to Get Back Pain Relief from Breast Reduction?

Question

I had breast reduction 2 weeks ago for shoulder, neck and back pain. I went from a 36dd to a 36 c. I had immediate pain relief right away. My pain level was cut in half!! I was thrilled. But yesterday, 10 days later it came back full force. My pain level is back up to 6-7. I hope this wasn't for nothing. How come it came back? Does my back just need time to heal? I just don't understand why I would get such immediate relief and then it would come back. I'm not doing anything to aggravate it.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Most patient describe exactly what you experienced after surgery - immediate relief.  However over the next several weeks you may have an adjustment period when all the muscles are rebalancing and adjusting to the new dynamics of your anatomy.  This may be what you are experiencing.  You should continue to greatly improve to the feeling you felt immediately after surgery with great relief of your pain.  

	 

	Good Luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Usually a breast reduction will help with back and neck pain as the additional weight is removed during the surgery. AS for your specific pain it is hard to say, but if it felt better after surgery, then perhaps this was due to positional issues or strain?

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

My patients report literally immediate relief of back pain.  However, if you have an underlying back problem, such as a slipped disc or spinal stenosis, then the breast reduction removes one contributing factor but not the underlying back problem.  You should continue to followup with your plastic surgeon and also to see an orthopedist or neurologist if necessary.

How Long Will It Take to Get Back Pain Relief from Breast Reduction?

Answers (3)