The Side Effects of Breast Augmentation

Thanks to breast augmentation surgery, women in the Atlanta and Marietta, GA areas have been able to get the curves and body contours that they’ve always wanted. The added confidence can be wonderful, and well worth the temporary side effects after getting breast implants.

Dr. Marcus H. Crawford would like to consider some of these most common side effects experienced by breast augmentation patients. This should give you a good idea of what to expect after surgery, as well as some information on how these side effects can be managed.

Pain and Discomfort

As the general anesthesia and local anesthetic wear off, breast augmentation patients will notice soreness around their nipples, breasts, and chest. This is natural, and thankfully this discomfort can be managed with the use of prescription mediation as well as over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid strenuous physical activity and bending over at the waist to minimize your pain.

The soreness should improve day to day, with significant improvements by the end of the first week after surgery.

Bruising

Bruising occurs when capillaries and blood vessels are damaged from incisions and the placement of the implants. Getting ample rest can help manage bruising, as can walking around a bit each day. Walking promotes blood circulation and helps prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.

Major bruising after breast augmentation will usually last for about two weeks after surgery. Bruises will continue to fade for another two weeks, and should no longer be an issue about a month or so after surgery.

Swelling

Following trauma, the body has a natural inflammatory response that helps aid with the healing process. The fluid is comprised of cells that help with the repair of your body’s tissues. Filter out excessive fluid by using your surgical drainage tubes as directed. Wearing your surgical bra can also help keep swelling under control.

Major swelling will usually last for about two weeks, with some minor swelling for about two weeks after that. Very minor residual swelling can last for several weeks after getting breast implants.

Changes in Nipple Sensitivity

Your nipples may be especially sensitive after breast augmentation surgery, particularly if you opted for the periareolar surgical technique. As your nerves heal, the nipple sensitivity should become less and less of an issue. The exact amount of time this side effect lasts can vary, though improvements should be noticeable from month to month.

Post-Surgical Scarring

Scarring is a reality after any kind of surgery has been performed. Thankfully the scars from breast augmentation surgery are concealed by many tops, bras, undergarments, and bathing suits. Avoiding prolonged sun exposure and quitting the use of tobacco products can greatly reduce the visibility of scarring.

Breast augmentation scars will be most noticeable in the early weeks after surgery. As the months and years go by, the scars will continue to heal and fade on their own.

What If My Side Effects Do Not Improve?

If your breast augmentation side effects show no improvement or become worse, be sure to contact Crawford Plastic Surgery ASAP. This could be the sign of a complication that requires professional attention and care.

Contact Crawford Plastic Surgery

If you would like more information about breast implants and what to expect after breast augmentation surgery, be sure to contact a board-certified plastic surgeon. Our team looks forward to your questions and will provide honest, helpful answers.