Can a bad cough after BA cause any problems to my surgery areas?

Question

Hi, I'm 10 days post op from BA and I caught a virus my general Doc said , But I'm worried that my intense coughing just after surgery might open up a blood vessel or some other injury to my newly surgical areas. What should I do ?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Coughing should not compromise your surgery. If you are concerned please follow up with your plastic surgeon to discuss. Best,

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

You certainly would benefit from symptomatic relief but I don't think the active coughing places the operation in any jeopardy.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

A bad cough in the early stages of recovery after breast augmentation can result in bleeding and hematoma.  The narcotics in your pain medicine are very good cough suppressants.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  In general, a cough can be a nuisance, but 10 days out should not put you at significant risk for any problems.  True, raising your blood pressure with the coughing can theoretically cause a late bleed, but that would be extremely rare this far out.  Nonetheless, use a cough suppressant to help your symptoms.  That is the best you can do. Best of luck.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

One would not expect coughing one and a half weeks following surgery to cause significant issues at the surgical site. There is a small possibility of bleeding but this would be very unusual. An exam by your primary care physician would help rule out any other possible issues aside from a viral cold. Some postoperative issues that run through the minds of surgeons include pneumonia and also blood clots that may have gone to the lungs. It would be wise to get checked out.

Paul Watterson, MD · Answer

The main concern with coughing is post op bleeding.  Fortunately, you are 10 days out from surgery.  Most bleeding occurs immediately post op or 7-10 days later.  You hopefully will not have a problem.  A cough suppressant is a good idea for a few days and holding a pillow on your chest will help.  Stay in touch with your plastic surgeon with any concerns.

Gaurav Bharti, MD, FACS · Answer

Coughing will likely not cause a problem after breast augmentation.  It is important that if you have any swelling or sharp pain after to be evaluated by your surgeon because there is a remote chance that it could cause bleeding from the blood pressure changes or disruption of the pocket closure.  Good Luck

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  You have a legitimate concern.  Bleeding after surgery that results in a hematoma (an expanding blood clot) is possible up to 3-4 weeks postop.  Generally, the risk is highest right after surgery, but I had one patient present 3 weeks postop.  Follow your doctors instructions and inquire about medications to help suppress your coughing.  Good luck.

Can a bad cough after BA cause any problems to my surgery areas?

Answers (8)

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