May 28, 2026

Postoperative Pain: What is Normal? When to go to the ER

Postoperative Pain: What is Normal? When to go to the ER
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Dr. Alain Polynice explains what postoperative pain is normal after surgery and when it may signal an emergency. While incision-site pain, tightness, and muscle-related discomfort (such as after a tummy tuck with muscle tightening or breast implants placed under the muscle) are expected, pain should generally improve over two to three days. Pain that continues or worsens by day three or four may indicate abnormal swelling, fluid collection, wound-healing problems, or skin necrosis, including concerning purple or black skin changes, and should prompt contacting your doctor, calling 911, or going to the ER. He also highlights calf pain as a serious warning sign for possible DVT, which can lead to pulmonary embolism.


00:00 What Pain Is Normal

00:47 When Pain Becomes Emergency

00:58 Wound Issues And Necrosis

01:36 Calf Pain And Blood Clots

02:02 When To Call Doctor Or ER


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