3 days post op Breast Augmentation, I have not used my bowels since. Is this normal?

Question

Have not used my bowels since.. I dont think i am constipated from the medications as i have not had the urge to go

Jimmy S. Firouz, MD, FACS · Answer

This
is a normal post-op thing to experience.Both anesthesia and pain medications can cause constipation.This can last up to even a week after
surgery.I provide my patients with a
stool softener in their medication pack to help with bowel movements.I recommend taking the stool softener BEFORE
they get constipated (starting immediately after surgery) to help avoid the
discomfort that is associated with constipation.In addition, I recommend drinking lots of
fluids and eating foods high in fiber (yogurt, fruit).Aloe juice and prune juice help get things
moving as well!

Alfonso Gonzalez Cepeda, MD · Answer

Yes, it is common to be constipated after surgery and it can last for up to a week.  This can be caused by the anesthesia you had during the procedure.  Try drinking more fluids as well as speaking to your doctor about taking a mild laxative.  Best of luck!

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

It is very common to have constipation after breast augmentation surgery.  This is not only caused by the anesthesia but also by the pain medications which are given to you after breast augmentation surgery.Eyelids S my patients to take Metamucil or other laxative daily after breast augmentation to avoid this problem.  However you need to see her plastic surgeon for specific advice.  Decreasing pain medication is also very important.

Sumanth Pagadala, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Your pain medication may actually be contributing to this problem.  Try to increase your fluid intake and maybe take a mild laxative. This problem should resolve itself as you start to decrease your need for pain meds.

3 days post op Breast Augmentation, I have not used my bowels since. Is this normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Bowel movement following breast augmentation

Answer: Bowel movement following breast augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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3 days post op Breast Augmentation, I have not used my bowels since. Is this normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Bowel movement following breast augmentation

Answer: Bowel movement following breast augmentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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