5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

Question

BA 5 days post op. Under the muscle. I was laying in bed and moved my arm the wrong way and felt a tearing feeling in my breast which was painful for a moment or so. Have I possibly done damage ?

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry and congrats on your surgery!The tearing feeling you are feeling is not unusual especially at this early stage in the recovery process. Please remain positive and keep communicating with your surgeon.The best of luck to you.Ali Sajjadian, MD FACS

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

It is normal to feel discomfort the first few weeks after breast augmentation. It is doubtful that simply moving your arm the wrong way will cause significant damage. The final appearance, shape, and movement and pain/tightness resolution take time - months to see your final result. Pain to a varying degree is normal after this procedure. Recovery in my experience does not happen at the same rate for both sides but eventually even out (though preoperative asymmetries will persist). The surgically enlarged breasts do not move in the same way as normal breasts. They tend to be firmer. The contours are usually somewhat different than normal breasts. In some patients these discrepancies may be rather noticeable. Although every effort is made to place the implants symmetrically, complete symmetry is rarely achieved. Immediately after surgery, the breasts are swollen and firmer. The final shape and size is approximated after 2 to 3 months, but up to one year may be required for the end result. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Sutures dissolve in 7 to 14 days. Light activities can be resumed as tolerated. Light exercise can be started in about 2-3 weeks, and strenuous exercise after 6 weeks. Your doctor may require you to move or massage the implants within the breast pockets during the postoperative period. Textured implants do not require breast massage. See you Plastic Surgeon if concerned or the pain does not diminish.

John J. Edney, MD · Answer

It is unlikely that you have done anything to jeopardize the final outcome of your surgery.  Soon after your surgery is performed the body will begin the healing process internally by forming connections within the pocket.  Most often immediately after surgery movement is restricted.  As movement increases postoperatively some of these fragile connections are torn to accommodate the implant location and positioning.  These minor internal adjustments can cause temporary discomfort.  It is very common to hear this type of concern.  If pain continues however you should contact your plastic surgeon.  Good luck

Michael E. Ciaravino, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Sometimes moving too quickly or over extending can cause sharp shooting pains that are nerve related. There shouldn't be anything to be concerned about unless you notice an increase in swelling in one of your breasts.

5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

Answers (4)

Answer: 5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

Answer: 5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

Answers (4)

Answer: 5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

Answer: 5 days post op, I have this tearing feeling. Any suggestions?

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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.