Is abnormal menstrual bleeding due to anesthesia from breast augmentation surgery?

Question

I had my period two weeks prior to my breast augmentation. Then three days after my surgery, I got my period again... It has been ten days now and my period hasn't stopped. What is going on and is this normal?

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

In over 30 years as a surgeon, I have seen this plenty of times, almost always without significance. The reason this is so common is that menstrual cycles are, of course, hormonal in nature, and surgery/anesthesia causes each person's body to respond with adrenocortical hormones to help the body more readily respond to the physical stress. That's why they are often called "stress hormones" and also why each patient's response is unique and individualized--each of us is "stressed" differently by anesthesia/surgery. Even the thought of surgery can cause enough stress in some individuals to stimulate a more strong response. Some individuals who are not stressed mentally or psychologically at all (they are excited and happy about surgery) may still have an unusually strong adrenocortical hormone response. Hard to predict, and not a indicator of "wimpiness!"All these hormonal responses are tied intimately together with those associated with menstrual flow, so this is actually more common than you  might think. Many patients may not tell their surgeon, and some surgeons may not want to know, but this is why not every surgeon may be aware of this.All that being said, if your periods do not promptly return to normal, please schedule a visit with your gynecologist to make sure all is well. Reassurance online is entirely different than asking a specialist who can examine you in person. But don't worry about this--it might throw off your periods! Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

Abnormal bleeding following surgery is not related to the anesthesia.  The stress of surgery causes hormone fluxes in your body after any type of surgery.  There is no need to worry, this is very common and will resolve within a few months.Best of luck,

David Shifrin, MD · Answer

I have seen early menstruation due to the stress of surgery. I am unaware of anesthesia causing it. if it continues for a few cycles I would go to your gynecologist for a visit.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I am not aware of anesthesia influencing your menstrual cycle.  If you continue to have abnormal bleeding, you should follow up with your gynecologist as they can give you more pertinent information on this topic.

John Sampson, MD (license obligations) · Answer

It is not unusual to have an early or irregular period with surgery. Any of life's stressors can result in changes to your cycle. There red is really not much to worry about.

Joseph W. Aguiar, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Over the years I have had many patients have unusual menstrual cycles after surgery.  I think this is due to stress.  Surgery of any kind, is stressful for the body.  I would recommend following up with your gynecologist if the problem persists.

Is abnormal menstrual bleeding due to anesthesia from breast augmentation surgery?

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