After Surgery

After surgery, patients can expect a variety of pains and sensations. Remember these symptoms are normal and are only temporary. Some discomforts may pass within days while others might take a few weeks.

Patients might experience any of the following:

Tiredness, soreness, sharp, sudden pains in the chest area due to nerve regeneration.During surgery nerves have been disturbed, and they need time to heal and regenerate.

Tightness in the breast area as the skin stretches to fit its new size

Burning sensation in the nipples the first two weeks after surgery

Swelling due to fluid retention Increased sensitivity

Noises from the implants such as squeaking or sloshing. This is caused by fluid build up or air bubbles. The implants are just settling.

Bruising

High breasts. It may take up to one year for the breasts to settle into their pockets.

Nausea

Constipation

Itchy skin due to skin stretching

Mood swings or depression

Sensitive nipples

The pain and discomfort will vary in intensity and duration from patient to patient. Size, surgical technique, patient diligence to post-op instructions and complications will contribute to the amount of postoperative pain and time of recovery. Luckily, most of the pain can be controlled by pain medication prescribed by the operating surgeon. Even with all of these ailments, patients will be up and moving within 24-48 hours. Patients can often return to work within days, and moderate activities can be resumed fairly quickly. It may be a couple of months before one can return to strenuous activities. Stitches are usually removed within seven to ten days. A surgical bra may then be required.

Recovery may be facilitated by following these tips: Apply icepacks the day of surgery

Sleep in an upright position for a couple of weeks after surgery

Do not bend over or strain the breast area

Massage smooth implants after the first 24-hours