Ice or heat for swelling immediately following Breast Augmentation?

I generally don't recommend ice for breast patients as the implant is so far from the skin surface it does little good nor is it helpful after the point of maximum swelling, after the first 3 days.Discuss this with your surgeon and follow his directions!#iceaftersurgery#breastaugmentation#BA

Never heat. Always ice because your trying to minimize the risk of bleeding that soon after surgery. 

Hello,I would advise that you ask your plastic surgeon, as everyone has their own preferences regarding post operative care.  This may be something that the office staff can easily answer for you over the phone.If you do use ice packs be sure to protect your skin using by wrapping it in a towel to avoid freezing injury to your skin.  Best of luck to you,

Each plastic surgeon has their own guidelines. Typically I allow my patients to have a cool compress applied for 10 minutes on 10 minutes off. Do ask your plastic surgeon. 

A good question, but one that should be addressed to the operating surgeon.An issue is that because we almost always use local anesthesia during the procedure, the breast skin will not have normal sensation for up to a day.  The usual protective sensation to help avoid burns or frostbite are not normal, so there are real hazards.All the best. 

Every plastic surgeon has a different opinion about using ice or heat.  I do allow my patients to use ice that is carefully wrapped in a towel so they cannot freeze their breasts. right after surgery, you may not have full sensation, and need to be very careful with ice. Since surgery is fresh trauma, ice does better for most patients.  Do ask your surgeon what he/she prefers and please follow that advice.

Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to specific postoperative care instruction/advice. Generally speaking, patients need to be VERY careful about the direct application of ice (or heat) over surgical sites.  These areas may be insensate (numb);  cold or heat injuries may result without the patient even being aware… If you do decide to utilize ice,  do not apply directly ( place it over a towel) and use it for short periods of time. Best wishes.

Most surgeons allow ice compresses for the first few days after surgery with care not to freeze and thereby damage a numb area on the breast.  Later, heat can be used, but you should check with your surgeon prior to either.