I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Question

The sensitivity/pain is mostly on the top portion of my breasts near the nipples, but not on the nipple. Is this nerve regenerating? I did not have this pain until 10-12 days after surgery. Pain is present walking and especially riding in a car. No pain when just sitting. Touching them lightly even is uncomfortable. I'm hoping that this will diminish over time. I am beginning to worry.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It is normal to have hypersensitivity after surgery.  Although it does not happen to everyone, it is not something to worry about.  It will go away on its own.  There is nothing to do to accelerate the healing, or to make the hypersensitivity go away.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone breast reduction procedure. Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to precise diagnosis, treatment recommendations, or (in your case) probable reassurance.Hypersensitivity after breast surgery is very common and, in the vast majority of cases, temporary. Therefore, I would not be too concerned if I were you, unless there are signs/symptoms of infection (or other problems) present.  The last part of my previous sentence explains why careful/close follow-up with your plastic surgeon is important. Best wishes for an outcome you will be very pleased with long-term.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

It's common to experience hypersensitivity and some pain in the weeks following a breast reduction, especially around the 4-week mark. As your nerves heal, it's normal to feel tingling, itching, or hypersensitivity. This can occur as the nerves regenerate and the tissue adjusts after surgery.
Since there is no sign of infection (e.g., redness, warmth, fever, or discharge), these sensations are likely part of the healing process. However, it’s important to keep your plastic surgeon informed about any pain or discomfort, particularly if it's worsening or interfering with your recovery. They may recommend techniques such as desensitization exercises or medications to manage the sensitivity.
If you haven't already, it's a good idea to check with your plastic surgeon for peace of mind and to ensure your healing is progressing as expected.

Mahsa Moghaddam Smoot, MD · Answer

Sensory changes after a breast reduction procedure are not uncommon within the first few weeks after surgery as your body is still healing. Frequently these sensory changes manifest as hypersensitivity which is temporary and will resolve with time. Your body will continue to heal and change over the next six months. Your scar tissue will soften and your breasts will assume their final shape and size during this time. I always ask my patients to wait six months to really see the final result of their surgery. In the meantime, it is important for you to communicate your concerns to your plastic surgeon. He/she will be your best resource for follow-up and after-care instructions as you recover from your procedure. I wish you the best!

Tarick K. Smiley, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hypersensitivity after breast reduction surgery, or any type of breast surgery, is not uncommon because it is mainly caused by the nerves repairing themselves so you can regain your sensation.  This process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the incision pattern and extensiveness of your operation. As long as there is no symptom of infection--e.g., pus, skin discoloration, wound reopening, etc.--there is generally nothing to worry about.  But for the sake of giving you a peace of mind, you should personally talk to your PS about your concern. Good luck and best wishes to you.

I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Answers (5)

Answer: I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Answer: I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Answer: Hypersensitivity After Breast Reduction Surgery

Answer: Hypersensitivity After Breast Reduction Surgery

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I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Answers (5)

Answer: I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Answer: I had a breast reduction 4 weeks ago and having hypersensitivity and pain in both breasts. No infection is present. Is this ok?

Answer: Hypersensitivity After Breast Reduction Surgery

Answer: Hypersensitivity After Breast Reduction Surgery

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.