Does Breast Augmentation Hurt?

As much as you might want to improve the proportions of your breasts in relation to your body, you may also worry about the pain associated with surgery. Many patients who visit our Denver office to consult about breast augmentation ask this honest and relevant question. Does breast augmentation hurt? We believe this deserves more thoughtfulness and time to answer well. When you understand more about the discomfort that you might experience after breast augmentation, we anticipate that you may feel a greater sense of peace of mind as you make your surgical decision. And when you have peace of mind that your comfort is our priority, you can spend more of your time feeling excited about your journey!

Breast Augmentation: What Should I Expect?

It is difficult to give a single-word answer to the question about breast augmentation pain. It would be more accurate to say "yes and no." Here's why. When you have breast augmentation, you will be under general anesthesia. The way that general anesthesia works is by inhibiting pain reception. The brain cannot register pain for the duration of the procedure. That said, as you would expect, the procedure does involve aspects that would be painful. Incisions are made in the skin. The connective tissue, fatty tissue, and muscle are either cut or moved to create access to the pocket into which breast implants are placed. Finally, when the breast implants are situated, they are causing all of the surrounding tissue to stretch to accommodate them. But, because you are under general anesthesia, you won't feel this.

What About Post-Operative Pain?

When patients wake up from general anesthesia after breast augmentation, the sensation they tend to describe the most is heaviness. This is representative of the tightness that is occurring around the breast implants and the compression being applied by the surgical bra. The surgical area may also feel sore and tender as healing progresses. However, it is manageable. Initially, prescription painkillers help reduce post-surgical discomfort. This is complemented by the body's natural painkilling effects of endorphins. These chemicals are produced in the pituitary gland, which is stimulated by, guess what, pain. So, to some degree, the mild to moderate discomfort that occurs after surgery is beneficial to the overall healing process.

The good news about post-operative pain is this. It is minimal. It is beneficial to healing, and it is manageable. After about a week, most patients are off of their prescription painkillers and managing comfort with over-the-counter medication. To learn more about breast augmentation surgery, contact our Denver office at 303.399.7662 and schedule a consultation.