2 weeks post-op. My right side boob/armpit area is still very sore and hurts. Is this normal or could it be a rip in my pocket?

Question

I’m two weeks post op after having a breast lift and augmentation, and my right sideboob/armpit area is still very sore and hurts more than any other part of my surgical areas. Is this normal and maybe just because I’m right handed, or could it be an issue or rip in my pocket?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mcoleman603,
two weeks after surgery it is not uncommon to have some pain or discomfort but it should not be extreme. I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. 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

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  While some pain is expected after any surgical procedure, it should be manageable and continue to decrease as time goes on. At two weeks, it would not be uncommon to have some slight discomfort. It may be hat you are using your dominant arm more or that the swelling is subsiding while the implant continues to settle. However, you should maintain follow-up with your surgeon and make an appointment to discuss your concerns. Consideration for activity restrictions or a breast garment may be warranted if in fact your pocket is open. Your surgeon would examine and determine your issue and any other recommendations. Best wishes for a wonderful result!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It would not be uncommon to still have soreness two weeks after surgery, especially on your dominant side.  If the discomfort worsens or you notice changes such as increased redness to the area or fever, contact your surgeon.

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

It is likely to just be part of your healing process, but the discomfort should be decreasing significantly this far out from surgery.  There are many things to consider as possible sources and this is best assessed with an in person visit with your surgeon.

Jeffrey Nelson, MD · Answer

Your question has a few variables, don't they all! Yes you are right to wonder why you are still sore or perhaps feeling too tight 2 weeks after surgery. What many of forget to think about is how much we restrict activity that first week and then we try to get back to more normal behaviors and even lite activity can make you go from feeling ok to "boy that arm pit is sore". Arm dominance can play into it and then as soon as one arm or breast side hurts you protect it subconsciously and the next day or two the other side might hurt. This is crazy common. Also if someone has had a bit larger implant placed that is more stretch on the muscle and tissues which also will hurt more. Almost no one in my experience (30 years now) feels the same on both sides, and many patients don't settle or fluff out their submuscular implants at the same rate. Be patient, take it slow, and check in with your surgeon about how much they want you doing. Have a safe recovery.

2 weeks post-op. My right side boob/armpit area is still very sore and hurts. Is this normal or could it be a rip in my pocket?

Answers (5)

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