Breast augmentation surgery is popular across a wide age range of women. This procedure, with or without a breast lift, can beautifully enhance the proportions of the body. In addition to feeling excited about the potential outcome of breast augmentation, most patients also face some degree of concern about complications and side effects. Primarily, we talk with patients to answer their questions about pain during and after the procedure. Because it is such a common thing to wonder if breast augmentation is painful, we want to discuss it in detail here. Such an important question deserve no less than a thoughtful response.
Breast Augmentation: What Should I Expect?
Does breast augmentation hurt? No. And yes. The most honest answer must be multifaceted and comprehensive. When you have breast augmentation, you will be under general anesthesia. This works by interrupting neurotransmitter activity between the body and the brain. General anesthesia is routinely used in even the most complex surgical procedures, like open-heart surgery. It is safe and efficient for patients undergoing breast augmentation and other plastic surgery procedures. In short, no pain is felt during the procedure.
What About Post-Operative Pain?
The insertion of breast implants requires the surgeon to manipulate skin, connective tissue and, in many cases, muscle. A certain degree of tissue trauma takes place. This is why, when patients wake up from anesthesia, they can sense soreness and tightness in the chest. The compression garment applied after surgery helps, as does prescription pain medication. However, a little pain is a vital part of optimal healing, too. When the brain registers pain signals from the body, it then stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more endorphins. These neuro-chemicals are natural painkillers. The inflammation that is natural after any wound also stimulates collagen production in the affected area. This protein helps with tissue and skin healing, so we need that inflammatory response to promote strong healing. The pain that a patient feels after breast augmentation surgery is tolerable. Prescription pain medication is usually only needed for about a week. After that, over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen is sufficient to maintain comfort.
Now is the best time to get your best look. To learn more about breast augmentation, contact our Austin office at (512) 450-1077 for a personal consultation with Dr. Trussler.