Is it normal 4 weeks post op Mastopexy with Augmentation to have such burning pain?

Question

I had 470 cc on my left with an anchor lift and 350 on my right with a lift. I was feeling good until a week ago I had extreme pain in my left no matter what I did, just to move my arm sent tears. Now the pain is a little better but now it is extreme burning. I have no fever, no swelling or bruising. My dr says it's just muscle pain. Is this still normal 4 weeks out? And I can handle pain I gave birth to 2 9 pound babies!!

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question! Numbness after any surgical procedure is expected for several weeks to months following. As the nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction. This usually resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure performed, sometimes much longer. Typically this should resolve by 1 year. As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation returning is small. However, it can take up to 2 years. If no return from there, it is unlikely to return. It should be discussed that persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical procedure.  There is small rate of sensation change in breast augmentation - moreso for breast lift and reduction, where the nipple is cut and moved.  If this was not done during your breast augmentation, sensation should return over the next several weeks to months. The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then occasional sharp, shock-like pains. These will be normal to experience, and actually a promising sign. Usually, normal sensation returns, but is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased sensation to the areas affected. Re-educating nerves postoperatively is often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc. If bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity. You can try various textures such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc. Massaging the areas is also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible. The last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this location. If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted. After ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has developed and may require surgical excision. This is very unlikely unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during the procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

Mark Crispin, MD · Answer

Burning pain after a mastopexy augmentation is not unusual. It is generally caused by the sensory nerves  that innervate the skin of the breast coming alive again. As long as you have no signs of infection, are well supported  with a bra and are regularly seeing your plastic surgeon you should be fine. Sometimes a muscle spasm medication will help you with the crampy pain.

Jason Mussman, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question!  I have had patients occassionally describe a burning sensation after breast augmentation.  In my experience, this sensation always goes away with time.  Your plastic surgeon can prescibe something to control the pain in the meantime.  Try to hang in there.  Things will get better.  --Dr. Mussman

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to develop this kind of pain after a breast procedure.  I look at as the nerves starting to grow back.  Of course it is important to check with your surgeon to be sure there is no infection but at this stage infection is very unlikely.  It is good news that the pain is getting better already.  This kind of thing typically resolves over time.  Ask your surgeon about measures to help relieve the discomfort.

Thomas A. Cochran, Jr, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thanks for your question. Burning pain at this point in the post operative stage is usually related to nerve healing and will resolve with a little time. I am glad that the pain is already getting better for you, but if it continues, your surgeon may be able to prescribe a mild analgesic or anti inflammatory to make you more comfortable. Good luck

Is it normal 4 weeks post op Mastopexy with Augmentation to have such burning pain?

Answers (6)

Answer: Post op breast pain

Answer: Post op breast pain

Answer: Burning pain

Answer: Burning pain

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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

Is it normal 4 weeks post op Mastopexy with Augmentation to have such burning pain?

Answers (6)

Answer: Post op breast pain

Answer: Post op breast pain

Answer: Burning pain

Answer: Burning pain

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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