I Am 5 Weeks Post Op Breast Augmentation, And Have Had Severe Pain Since. What's The Cause? (photo)

Question

I had severe pain on my left breast that was caused by the stretching of the nerves, inflammation around the nerves, and swelling. I was prescribe to take steroids which alleviate most of the pain but I currently still feel that my left breast is still very sensitive (more pain and swelling) when I move minimal such as driving or washing dishes. When I rise up from my sleep, I can feel a some pain when the implant is moving downards. Could I Have hematoma? I am afraid to have capsular contracter

S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS · Answer

Every surgery if different, every person's perception of pain is different, but severe pain five weeks after a breast augmentation is incredibly unusual in my experience. You need to see your plastic surgeon and have a complete evaluation. If the pain doesn't subside in the next couple of weeks, a referral to a pain management specialist might be appropriate. Pain always subsides and things always get better, but you shouldn't have to suffer until things get better.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

This is usually the result of nerve regeneration, and will often subside over time. Tingling is a good sign and it most likely means that sensation is returning. Changes in sensation are normally temporary and resolve in the weeks or months following surgery. It may be a little early for capsular contracture, but you should definitely see your surgeon just in case.

Paul Fortes, MD · Answer

At 5 weeks postop, you are still early in your recovery period and
are likely to experience occasional mild to moderate pain.  You will continue healing over the next 6-12
months, and as you do so your pain will be less and less.  Sometimes women will have tenderness at the
inframammary incisional scar or slightly below it.  This area may feel firm or may even look like
a raised “guitar string”.  This may be
what you are experiencing 5 weeks into your recovery.  Anti-inflammatory analgesic like Advil or
Naprosyn and massaging of the area can be helpful.  I expect that the pain will go away over
time.  Always follow-up with your plastic
surgeon so that he or she can determine that your recovery continues on track.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and photo.  You're still in the recovery stage after surgery.  You have very nice results and by your photos it does not appear that you have a significant hematoma. However, an examination is necessary to determine that.  Capsular contracture could result in pain particularly with movement of your hands.  Your surgeon should evaluate you and examine you to determine if you have developed capsular contracture.  Also, caffeine and bromine (in chocolate) can irritate breast tissues and make them very sensitive.  If you take large amounts of either, try cutting back or stopping.  Visit your surgeon and keep us posted wit what happens.  Wish you the best and quick recovery!An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice.

Antonio Gayoso, MD · Answer

I believe that it is a bit unusual for you to have severe pain 5 weeks after breast augmentation surgery and I would encourage you to discuss this with your surgeon. Certainly, discomfort and tenderness are not uncommon at this point in your post operative course, but severe pain should be evaluated.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is a bit unusual for patients to have pain from breast augmentation at 5 weeks after surgery. It can be from spasm of the muscle, and stretchng in general. But there are other causes as well. An exam with your doctor is probably necessary.

Timothy Fee, MD · Answer

In some situations I have offered a combination of neurontin (settles hyperactive nerves) and elavil. This combination is often used for over excited nerves such as carpal tunnel syndrome or chronic pain syndromes. It has worked well for me in the past.

Beverly Friedlander, MD · Answer

Most people will experience a difference in pain and or swelling after surgery when comparing the right and left sides. This is perfectly normal even at 5 weeks. You photos demonstrate mild swelling on both sides and it appears as if the left side may be starting to settle. Be patient and discuss your concerns with your doctor, Good luck

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and picture.

	I do not see any evidence of hematoma in your picture.

	It would be in your best interest to be examined carefully  by your plastic surgeon;  he/she is in the best position to help you.

	Best wishes.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi..

	Where is your surgeon?  You should not have significant pain now.  You need a good physical exam and a sonogram.  It could be nothing but you need to make sure.

I Am 5 Weeks Post Op Breast Augmentation, And Have Had Severe Pain Since. What's The Cause? (photo)

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