8 days post op. breast augmentation. 305cc under muscle Have developed ache in my sternum. Should I worry about this?

Question

Last night used my right arm to pull myself up on bed. Got sharp pain. Since then developed ache in bottom right breast along with ache in sternum. No xtra swelling or bruise and ibuprofens help. Is this something I should worry about? Weekend so have not reached out to my PS

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

All might be normal. At 8 days you are about 5 percent healed. An in person evaluation by your surgeon might be needed for a definitive answer.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and AuthorRealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

It is positive that you haven't noticied increased brusing or swelling since the 'ache' began. I would recommend calling your surgeon although it is the weekend. You have never been through the healing course of the breast augmentation and an assessment by your surgeon will assure proper healing and a piece of mind for you. Best of luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Original9152,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. Based on your description, it doesn't sound like anything serious. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Marcus Davis, MBBS, MRM, FRCSEd (Plast) · Answer

Many thanks for the question.
When you place the implants under the muscle the pectorals major muscle can sometimes be released slightly on the lower edge over towards the sternum (chest bone). Also, your pec. muscle is used to being flat against your chest wall and is now being stretched over an implant, putting tension on th muscle fibres  - these muscle fibres are joined on to (insert) the chest bone. when you tried to pull yourself up you will have inadvertently worked the pectorals muscle resulting in it pulling on your chest bone and trying to tighten whilst being stretched over an implant - this is normal to have discomfort. The fact that there is no swelling and it settles with Ibuprofen is encouraging. I would however fully expect this to settle with time - usually weeks.
I would advise that as soon as you can you return to see you PS so as to be checked over and reassured.
I wish you luck and congratulations on your recent augmentation.
Marcus

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your surgery!

It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.

It is crucial to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is important for healthy results.

It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place. Should a revision cross your mind, it is best to wait at least 6 months to a year before doing so.

Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).

Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.

During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

8 days post op. breast augmentation. 305cc under muscle Have developed ache in my sternum. Should I worry about this?

Answers (5)