3 days post op I have pain and redness on the left incision. Is this normal? (photo)

Question

I’m three days post op and have had minimal pain. However I felt my left breast felt tighter and more uncomfortable today after taking my compression bra off to wash it. I noticed more discomfort radiating from the left breast and incision. Decided to take a peak at the incision and noticed it was a lot bloodier than the other incision and that there was some redness around the skin.is this normal?

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your surgery.  I would suggest following up with your surgeon to be evaluated.  Looking at the picture it looks to be ok, but with out an in person exam hard to tell for sure.  Best of luck to you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Neat3964,
it is not unusual to have pain 3 days after BA. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, but without an exam it is hard to advise, I suggest you check in with your surgeon, best of luck.

R. Stewart Collins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This sounds very normal since you are 3 days out from surgery. I recommend discussing your concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon at your next follow up appointment. Best of luck!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation, discomfort and irregularities are normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your surgery!  It is common for one breast to be more uncomfortable during recovery.  From the photo you provided the area appears to be healing normally.  I encourage you to contact your surgeon with your concerns.  It is important to feel comfortable and confident in your recovery.

Scott D. Green, MD · Answer

Hi and congratulations on your recent surgery. Yes, this can be absolutely normal, and redness and more pain on on side is common. With that said, I do agree with the others that it is always better to be seen in person and to check in with your surgeon. Best,

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

In plastic surgery school, they teach us that God created pus on the fourth day...best to get checked out, have a wound swab done and consider some antibiotics for the redness and stop them if the swab is negative....it is a lot easier to do this than to have an infected implant.M. Kara, MD, FRCSC. (Specializing in 24 Hour Recovery or Out To Dinner, Breast Augmentation)

3 days post op I have pain and redness on the left incision. Is this normal? (photo)

Answers (8)