How long does pain usually last after breast augmentation?

Question

I am postop day 4 after having subpectoral breast implants. I went from 34A to 350cc high profile silicone. I am still in a large amount of pain. I stopped taking narcotic pain meds on day 2. Now I am currently taking Tylenol and a muscle relaxer. I did not have much body fat in my breasts, mainly muscle, from extensive exercise/weightlifting so thought maybe this is why I am having a large amount of pain. I was wondering when the pain usually starts to get better?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Pain is usually at it's worst for the first 3-5 days and will be almost entirely resolved by two weeks. After that some mild sensitivity or incision soreness while healing is normal. If you feel that you need stronger pain medication right now let your Plastic Surgeon know. You can likely expect to feel less pain soon though.All the best

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Recovery varies from person to person.  It is not uncommon for patients to use the narcotics and muscle relaxers for a week after surgery.  Usually it is tapered with more frequent doses at the beginning of the week, trending to maybe only a dose or two by the end of the week.  If you find your pain is not lessening over time contact your surgeon for instructions.  Sometimes various types of massage can be used as well.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

When having pain, It's always a good idea to check with your surgeon. In general, I inform my patients that discomfort usually eases up around the fourth day after surgery, and if they need medication they can alternate Tylenol with ibuprofen every two hours. My patients feel that the anti inflammatory action of the ibuprofen helps a great deal. For more information on this and similar topics, I recommend a plastic surgery Q&A book like "The Scoop On Breasts: A Plastic Surgeon Busts the Myths. Hope this helps.

Chien C. Kat, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.The pain experienced does vary from person to person. The majority of the pain should settle after a week, but you may still require the occasional pain killer in your second week.Good luck

Raymond Jean, MD · Answer

Most patients in my practice no longer need prescription pain medication after 48 hrs and typically use Tylenol.  Pain perception does vary from patient to patient.  Sub pectoral or dual plane augmentation is more uncomfortable than above the muscle (subglandular) .  Other things that contribute to a higher level of discomfort is larger implant size and smaller breast size to begin with.  More musclular patients also sometimes have more discomfort due to the stretching of the muscle.  Muscle relaxants usually help more than prescription pain meds with muscular pain.   Best of luck in your recovery.  Raymond Jean MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Bryn Mawr, Philadelphia PA

How long does pain usually last after breast augmentation?

Answers (7)