Sharp, Electric Shock-Like Pains After Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is often accompanied by pain, swelling
and discomfort.These are essentially
normal findings which usually resolve with the passage of time.The
sharp, stabbing, electric shock sensation that you describe frequently occurs
when sensory nerves become inflamed and irritated.This type of irritation is not unusual when
nerves are compressed and stretched.During and after breast augmentation surgery, this is exactly what
happens to the nerves that supply the breasts.The breast implant underneath the breast tissue compresses and stretches
the soft tissue and nerves that supply the breast.In many cases, the process is made worse by
swelling. Patients
often describe a sharp, stabbing, shooting pain that can be very
uncomfortable.These symptoms usually
resolve in 6 to 9 weeks without intervention.In some cases, aggressive massage can desensitize the area and minimize
the pain and discomfort associated with this condition.

The feeling of pins and needles or an electric shock is quite common after any surgery, including a breast augmentation.  These sensations represent irritation to the sensory nerves and generally get much better in time.  Hang in there!  Best of luck!

Thank you for your question.  It is most likely that you nerves are cut, tethered or entrapped in scar tissue. It could also be that they were stretched and went out of commission for a while, and now starting to recover and wanting to let you know they are coming alive. If the symptoms are unbearable, then I would visit with your plastic surgeon. There are some medications that can help with the nerve related discomfort.

I
find this to be an extremely common complaint.I think that it’s partly related to the fact that swelling often
accumulates along the sides of the breasts when you are sleeping, because it is
the most dependent (lowest) area.It
could also be related to the fact that a lot of the nerve input to the breast
comes from the sides, and the nerves get irritated due to the surgery.Rest assured, however, that this will
subside.For most of my patients, this
resolves within 1 to 2 weeks.

It is not unusual to have sharp electrical pains on one side and not the other due to nerve irritation or compression (neuropraxia).

Different types of nerve sensations are not uncommon after breast augmentation surgery. Early on it represents nerve irritation from the surgery.  These sensations will resolve over time.

Dr. ES

It is perfectly normal to be having pain at this point. It never fails that one side hurts more despite the same surgery on each side. Our bodies are naturally asymmetric. Sharp shooting pain like you describe is typically nerve pain. This can result from pressure on a nerve, or  irritation from the surgery on a nerve. Nerve pain generally takes a long time to resolve so be patient.

Kendra Lee

After any surgery, it is normal to have pain and discomfort.  Whenever nerves are cut, they have raw nerve endings that need to heal.  While they are healing, these raw endings spontaneously fire signals to the brain that can be perceived as anything from an itch to stabbing pain to burning sensation.  These feelings should subside as the nerve endings heal.  If this is causing you excessive amount of discomfort or if this persists for a long time, you should let your surgeon know and he / she can prescribe you some medication for nerve pain.

Sincerely,

Martin Jugenburg, MD

Experiencing sharp, electric shock-like pains after breast augmentation surgery can be concerning, but it's not uncommon. These sensations are often part of the normal healing process, but it's essential to communicate any concerns with your plastic surgeon. Here are some possible reasons for experiencing such pains:
1. Nerve Regeneration: During surgery, nerves in the breast tissue may be stretched or temporarily damaged, leading to sensations of tingling, burning, or sharp pains as they regenerate. This is often described as "zingers" or "shocks" and can occur as the nerves heal.
2. Implant Placement: Depending on the surgical technique and placement of the implants, nerves in the breast tissue may be more or less affected. For example, if the implants are placed under the muscle (submuscular), there may be more pressure on the nerves, leading to increased sensitivity.
3. Capsular Contracture: In some cases, sharp pains could be a sign of capsular contracture, a complication where scar tissue tightens around the implant, causing discomfort and distortion of the breast shape. If you notice any changes in the appearance or feel of your breasts, including increased pain or hardness, it's essential to contact your surgeon.
4. Muscle Spasms: As the muscles in the chest adjust to the presence of the implants, they may experience spasms or tightness, leading to sharp, shooting pains.
5. Hypersensitivity: Some individuals may experience heightened sensitivity or nerve irritation in the breasts after surgery, leading to sensations of sharp pains.
6. Inflammation: Post-surgical inflammation can also contribute to discomfort and nerve sensitivity, leading to sharp pains.
7. Healing Process: Remember that the body's healing process is complex and can involve various sensations as tissues recover and adapt to the presence of the implants.
If you're experiencing persistent or severe sharp pains after breast augmentation surgery, it's crucial to contact your plastic surgeon for evaluation. They can assess your symptoms, provide guidance, and ensure that there are no underlying complications requiring treatment. In most cases, these sensations diminish over time as the body heals, but your plastic surgeon can provide recommendations based on your specific situation.

I would encourage you to schedule a visit with a Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon to determine the exact source of your discomfort.