Breast enhancement with implants can provide a woman with the elevated self-image she deserves. For the woman who approaches breast augmentation with a healthy sense of self and a desire to align her body with that image, the outcome of surgery can be profoundly satisfying. Part of setting realistic expectations for breast augmentation includes a conversation about the questions the patient has. In nearly every consultation, patients want to know if breast augmentation is painful. This is a big question, and we believe it deserves a thoughtful response. Here, we’ll discuss the topic in more detail.
What Should I Expect With Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Does breast augmentation surgery hurt? No. When you have breast augmentation surgery, a board-certified anesthesiologist will administer the same medication that has been used for decades in all kinds of surgical procedures. People who have complex procedures get the same anesthesia that is administered during breast augmentation, which is relatively minimally-invasive in comparison. When a person is under general anesthesia, their brain cannot register pain signals from the body. They are in a sleep state and are monitored closely to ensure their safety.
When you are under general anesthesia for breast augmentation, the surgeon makes incisions in the skin and moves connective tissue and muscle as needed to insert your breast implants into the proper position. These acts represent tissue trauma, which is one reason why patients need a week or so to recover from their surgery. So, does breast augmentation hurt? In some sense, yes. When general anesthesia wears off, patients may feel heaviness and tightness in their chest. They will most likely experience soreness and tenderness as their connective tissue, muscle, and skin heal. The good news is that prescription painkillers do a very good job and mitigating these sensations. Furthermore, a little discomfort is actually a good thing! It signals to the brain that healing is needed. The brain responds by ordering endorphins from the pituitary gland and collagen from the fibroblasts in the surgical site. These chemicals contribute to pain relief and tissue repair, so we can appreciate the slight pain it may take to get them.
If you are interested in breast augmentation, we can provide you with the clear answers and compassionate care you need to make an informed and confident decision. Contact our Englewood, NJ office at 201.567.9595 to schedule your consultation.
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