Stomach bloated after breast augmentation. Any suggestions?

Question

I had surgery on Monday (breast implants) and my stomach has been bloated ever since. Is this normal after this type of surgery? I was skinny when I went into surgery and now I look fat. Am I just retaining water or is it from the anesthesia?

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Abdominal swelling is normal after breast augmentation.  Swelling follows gravity and thus your abdomen (and sometimes the thighs) will experience more swelling and add confusion to the post-op period. You may even notice that you've added many pounds on the scale that cannot be explained solely by the addition of implants.  You should notice a decrease in the abdominal swelling with each week that passes by.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

This is a common complaint after surgery. Your digestive system tends to slow down temporarily causing bloating after general anesthesia.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I am sorry to hear about your stomach issues, but these will only be temporary. Often with anesthesia, and pain medications, your digestive system can slow, causing a fair amount of bloating and discomfort.  Additionally during surgery you are given fluids to remain hydrated and this can cause your skin to swell and retain water. Normally after about 3-5 days most of these symptoms will start to improve, so hang in there!

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there, thanks for the question. Just like my colleagues have stated, bloating after surgery is very common and should go away within the next few days. If it persists or becomes worse, speak with your surgeon directly. Best of luck. -Dr. Coan

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, there.  It is normal to feel bloated after surgery.  Due to anesthesia, surgery, and pain medication, your GI tract may be moving slower.  In addition, you can retain fluid and experience swelling for 1-2 weeks.  Good luck with your speedy recovery.

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

It is quite normal to have some bloating after any surgery, including breast augmentation.  Some of this is due to the fact that a patient is given a significant amount of fluids during the surgery.  Also, pain medication can and does slow the intestinal tract.  Both of these problems will resolve.  Cutting back on your pain medication, increasing your ambulation, and trying a mild laxative can help.  But don't worry, things should get better soon.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Abdominal swelling is normal after breast augmentation. Because of gravity, a lot of the swelling from the breast moves downward. Also, pain medications can make people constipated which can cause abdominal bloating. This will resolve itself in no time. Hope this help! Dean Vistnes.

Stomach bloated after breast augmentation. Any suggestions?

Answers (7)

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