Hematoma. Can I use a hot water bottle for the pain or is a cold pack better?

Question

I have a Hematoma on my left breast after surgery breast reduction , can I used a hot water bottle of the pain or is a cold pack better . I've been using both my GP said this will heal up on its own . I must say the hot water bottle wrap in a tower is very nice and helps with the pain . Please help me with some feedback my pictures are on this site as well , so take a look please many thanks .

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

In my opinion, if you have a hematoma it needs to be immediately drained. If not drained, this can lead to infection. You should focus on getting back to the plastic surgeon.  He if she should attend to this hematoma. This will improve your pain.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

If you indeed have a hematoma this should be surgically drained. Any sort of application would be for comfort and is not therapeutic.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

If you have a large hematoma then it should be drained surgical.   If you just have bruising then using a warm compress may be beneficial.

Hematoma. Can I use a hot water bottle for the pain or is a cold pack better?

Answers (3)