Why Am I Having Hot Flashes After my Mastopexy (Breast Lift) Without Implants

    Sensation changes are fairly common after breast lift and do improve with time, but infection should be ruled out.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Hot flashes 10 days post breast lift are concerning for an infection.  I would call your surgeon as soon as possible to follow up.

Since your surgeon knows your medical history, you should communicate this with him/her and make sure that your healing is on track.  Different sensations are typical but you want to rule out things like infection or other complications.

Experiencing hot flashes after a mastopexy (breast lift) without implants can be concerning. Several factors might contribute to this, and it's essential to consider various aspects of your health and recovery process:
1. Hormonal Changes: Surgery and the associated stress can sometimes disrupt hormonal balance. This imbalance might trigger hot flashes, similar to those experienced during menopause.
2. Anesthesia and Medications: The anesthesia used during surgery and any pain medications prescribed post-operatively can impact your body's temperature regulation, potentially causing hot flashes.
3. Stress and Anxiety: The physical and emotional stress of undergoing surgery can lead to symptoms like hot flashes. Anxiety about the procedure or recovery might also contribute.
4. Inflammation and Healing: The body's natural response to surgery includes inflammation and an increased metabolic rate to promote healing. This can sometimes manifest as hot flashes.
5. Infection: Although less common, an infection can cause fever and hot flashes. It's essential to monitor for other signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge from the surgical site.
6. Pre-existing Conditions: If you have conditions such as thyroid disorders, they could be exacerbated by the surgery, leading to symptoms like hot flashes.
It's important to discuss these symptoms with your plastic surgeon or healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause and provide appropriate management strategies. In the meantime, staying hydrated, managing stress, and avoiding triggers like spicy foods or hot environments might help alleviate the hot flashes.

You should see your doctor if the heat is localized to the breast area to make sure there is no infection or inflammation.  You may be experiencing some dysesthesia or burning tingling sensations from the nerves in the breast being irritated, injured or stretched from the surgery.  This can occur for several months as the nerves regenerate and calm down.  Ask your doctor if cool compresses or ice pack is OK at this point.

 

 

 

I don't think I can give an explanation, but would suggest seeing your surgeon so that any mechanical complication can be excluded as a possible cause. 

As far as ice, check again with your surgeon. If your sensation has returned to normal, that restriction may be lifted.

Thanks for your question,, best. wishes.