PEMF Therapy Reduces Postoperative Pain After Breast Augmentation Surgery

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study explored whether Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy could reduce pain after breast augmentation surgery. The results were promising: patients who used PEMF therapy after surgery reported significantly less pain, as measured by a standardized pain scale, compared to those who used a sham device. The therapy was noninvasive, easy to use, and free of side effects—making it a compelling recovery option for post-surgical care.

Study Overview

• Title: Reduction of Postoperative Pain with Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

  
  

• Quick Summary: This clinical study evaluated the effectiveness of PEMF therapy in managing pain after breast augmentation. Thirty-eight female patients were randomly assigned to either active PEMF treatment or a placebo (sham) device. The study found that those in the PEMF group experienced significantly lower pain scores, suggesting PEMF may be a valuable adjunct to post-surgical care.

• Key Findings:

  • Pain Reduction:

    • 57% lower pain scores at 1 hour post-op

    • 300% lower pain scores at 5 hours post-op

    • Pain relief persisted up to 48 hours after surgery in the PEMF group

  • Medication Use:

    • 2.2× reduction in narcotic use among PEMF-treated patients

  • Inflammation Marker:

    • 275% lower IL-1β concentration in wound fluid at 24 hours

    • No significant changes in TNF-α, VEGF, or FGF-2

  • Safety:

    • No adverse effects were reported in either group

• Study Details:

  • Sample Size: 38 women undergoing breast augmentation

  • Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

  • Treatment Protocol: Patients received either active PEMF therapy or a sham device post-surgery

  • Assessment Period: Pain scores monitored at multiple intervals postoperatively

  • Key Outcome Measures: Pain intensity (visual analogue scale); patient safety

  • Statistical Results: Significant reduction in pain in the PEMF group (p-value not specified in abstract)

  • Year Published: 2010

  • Where Published: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Learn More

You can read the abstract on PubMed here.