Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort After Fibroadenoma Removal - Surgery

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Postoperative Wound After Fibroadenoma Surgery


Hello, doctor.
I underwent surgery at the beginning of the month to remove seven bilateral breast fibromas.
Since then, aside from pain at the incision site, I have been experiencing sharp pain, tingling, swelling, and even internal breast pain (sometimes in spasms) around the incision area (almost the entire breast).
It becomes very uncomfortable and painful to the touch (difficult to describe).
I was hospitalized for nine days, and after being discharged, I had a follow-up appointment to check the incision, but no medication was prescribed, and I was told I didn't need to return for further visits.
However, I still feel uncomfortable.
Could you please explain what might be causing this? Thank you, and I wish you peace and well-being!

Xiao Qi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/29

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery


Hello! The breasts are inherently sensitive organs, and since you had seven incisions, it is recommended to take pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and vitamin B12 for one to two weeks, which should help improve your condition gradually.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2016/08/29

More Info


Post-surgery pain and discomfort after fibroadenoma removal can be a common experience for many patients. After undergoing surgery, especially for procedures involving delicate tissues like the breast, it is not unusual to experience a range of sensations, including pain, tenderness, and even numbness in the surrounding areas. This can be attributed to several factors related to the surgical process and the body's healing response.

Firstly, during the surgery to remove fibroadenomas, the surgeon must cut through skin, fat, and potentially muscle tissue, which can lead to trauma in the area. This trauma can damage sensory nerves, resulting in sensations such as tingling, burning, or sharp pain. The healing process can also lead to the formation of scar tissue, which may contribute to discomfort as the body adjusts to the changes.

The symptoms you describe—sharp pain, tingling, swelling, and sensitivity to touch—are not uncommon and can be part of the normal healing process. The fact that you experienced pain in the entire breast area, as well as inside the breast, suggests that the surgical site is still healing and that the nerves are recovering from the trauma of the surgery. It is important to note that nerve regeneration can take time, and during this period, patients may experience varying degrees of discomfort.

In terms of the timeline for recovery, it can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, the initial healing of the skin and underlying tissues may take a few weeks, while complete recovery, including nerve healing, can take several months. If the pain persists beyond what is considered normal or if it worsens, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation to rule out complications such as infection or hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels).

For managing post-operative pain, there are several strategies that may help. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be effective in reducing discomfort. If these are not sufficient, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication. Additionally, applying a cold compress to the area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain temporarily.

Physical therapy may also be beneficial in some cases, especially if you are experiencing tightness or restricted movement in the area. A physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to help improve mobility and reduce discomfort.

It is also essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from the surgical site, or if you experience fever or chills, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while post-surgery pain and discomfort after fibroadenoma removal can be concerning, it is often a normal part of the healing process. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Remember, open communication with your medical team is key to ensuring a smooth recovery.

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