Do I Continue to Apply Warm Compresses to my Yellowish-brown Bruise? (photo)

Question

Warm compresses have helped my bruising significantly. The bruise is now a yellowish-brown. Should I continue with the warm compresses or let this resolve on it's own?

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Mimi,

	Cold compresses are effective for the first 48 hours after surgery or bruising.  We recommend that patients use warm compresses after the first 48 hours as the warmth helps to increase circulation and helps to dissipate the bruise.  V-beam lasers also help. Good luck and be well.

	Dr. P

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The color change referred to as part of the process of hemoglobin breaking down in the bruised tissue. This should resolve in several days. I'm not certain more packs will have any effect on the progress in might even increase swelling.

Nabil Fanous, MD · Answer

Go to cold compresses for one more week. Ideally, cold compresses are the ones to use after surgery. Warm compresses can actually make the bruises worse because it dilates the vessels.

Do I Continue to Apply Warm Compresses to my Yellowish-brown Bruise? (photo)

Answers (3)