Blue veins are very noticeable after BA. Will they go away?

Question

I'm 2.5 weeks post op. And the veins on my chest are so bad I cry every time I look in the mirror. Im covered, and they've gotten worse in the last week. I'm regretting my surgery, as I am now much more self cautious about my chest than I ever was before. Will this subside? If I get the removed will I go back to how I was before? If they don't go away is there treatment options to make them less noticeable? I can't even wear a slight v neck shirt with out them being noticeable.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

First of all, veins are normal. On everyone and every woman's chest. But you know that, and don't like how YOUR veins look right now--as if you didn't even notice them prior to your surgery.Regardless, they WILL get better. Over several months, not weeks, so be patient. You can use makeup if you need to, but again, realize that everyone has veins on their chests, but very few women try to cover them up with makeup. Now THAT would be eye-catching, don't you think? So, maybe that's not a good idea.One other thing that has not been suggested. Well, two. FIRST--do NOT have your implants removed. Whatever surgical changes causing the venous congestion that exist now will still exist even with the implants out. However, the pressure you have right now will settle and decrease over time, which is why the venous congestion will subside.SECOND--if the veins still bother you, sclerotherapy can likely eliminate some of them, just like we do for spider veins in the legs. Do NOT have laser treatment of these veins--the skin will blister and burn, and you will have permanent scars that you will really regret. But, sclerotherapy is an option if time does not make this better. In the meantime, ask your surgeon to look at the pre-op photos of your chest. If you check closely, the veins are indeed there. Give yourself time (6 months) and relax and enjoy your new breasts in the meantime. Cheers! Dr. Tholen

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Increased swelling and pressure often results in increased vein visibility in the chest area post op. This typically resolves over the first few months. You will need to be patient- you are still very early post op and it will take time for things to settle. Talk with your Plastic Surgeon about your concerns.All the best

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

The increased weight and pressure on your breast tissue from the implants can sometimes cause the veins and their blood flow to back up.  The good news is that this usually improves significantly during the first few months after breast augmentation.  Discussed these concerns with your plastic surgeon so they can follow you closely and advise you as things evolve.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Sometimes prominent veins will become less obvious over time.  I would suggest patience and following this issue with your surgeon.

Julio Clavijo-Alvarez, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

I am sorry that you are having issues about your procedure and
thanks for sharing your question. I can appreciate your
concern.

The veins might be having difficulty flowing the blood out of the breast due to the increased pressure. This in not typical, however it should improve as the breast settles and the pressure decreases.

Finally, make sure that your doctor is
aware of your process. He should be able to guide you best in your care.Wishing you the best in your journey

Blue veins are very noticeable after BA. Will they go away?

Answers (6)