Chest Tightness and Pain 2 Weeks Post-op

Question

Even wearing a top makes my skin feel uncomfortable. I also have shooting pin like pains at times and my breasts are still very swollen. I have been to see the doctor and they have just put me on an anti-biotic. Are these symptoms normal? I'm just wondering how long it will take for me to get back to feeling like myself? I am going back to work next week and if I still feel this bad I don't know how I am going to do it.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	2 weeks postop is not uncommon to be experiencing some continued discomfort. Make sure you have not weaned off the pain medication too soon and consider the use of anti-inflammatories as needed.

	The use of antibiotics to treat the area of redness is appropriate as is continued close follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

	If your symptoms continue you may need an additional week off work. Best wishes.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

From the photos, it appears that you had a breast reduction / lift with or without implants.  Chest discomfort after surgery is not uncommon, but if you are having persistent pain, then you need to contact your doctor.  Also, you appear to have minor incision healing issues, so an evaluation by your surgeon may be in order to get you on a wound healing regimen to help the incisions heal better. 

	 

	Good Luck.

Amy T. Bandy, DO, FACS · Answer

You post a photo, but you didnt state what procedure you had. Do you have implants? Did you have a breast reduction or a breast lift?  If you are as uncomfortable as you state and you do not have implants, I would recommend that you call your surgeon and ask to be evaluated again; you may benefit from blood work and possibly an ultrasound to see if there if fluid or infection going on.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Chest discomfort two weeks after surgery is very common. AS for the specific reason for your discomfort, there arer alot of details missing. What type of breast/chest surgery did you have?  What type of pain do you have, where is it located, etc..  You shuold speak with your doctor.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

We most often use a vertical or short scar breast reduction pattern, and use the 'T' incision such as your for only the largest reductions. The T pattern does take longer to heal and though most patients will return to work after just one week, some will be uncomfortable longer and need more time off. A good soft compression bra may help as well as anti inflammatory medication such as Advil.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

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Chest Tightness and Pain 2 Weeks Post-op

Answers (7)

Answer: Chest discomfort

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