Is a low grade fever (100 or 99.8) common after breast lift with implants the first 2 days after surgery?

Question

Day 2 post up and experiencing a fever in the evening. It goes away with Tylenol.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

Hi Tamz,It is not uncommon to have a fever post surgery. Some common causes could be chest congestion or a urinary tract infection if you had a catheter placed. If the fever does not go away in a day or two and/or if it rises, you should let your surgeon know so that he/she can keep an eye on your surgery sites so as to avoid an infection in this area.Best,Dr. Christine Rodgers

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  First, a fever is usually defined as 101.5 F or above.  Low grade temperatures as you are describing are common two days post operatively.  It is most likely due to atelectasis.  Atelectasis is defined as "the collapse or closure of a lung resulting in reduced or absent gas exchange. It may affect part or all of a lung. It is usually unilateral. It is a condition where the alveoli are deflated down to little or no volume."  Most patients will have this after general anesthesia. This is why we encourage patients to move, deep breathe, and cough after surgery.  This will help "re-inflate" the lungs and keep atelectasis, (and the fever that can come with it), away.  Please let your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon know how your are progressing.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Fever may be the result of something other than you surgery.  But if you fever has not gone down, phone your plastic surgeon's office to determine if he/she thinks you should come in for a post-op visit.

Richard Zienowicz, MD · Answer

It would be best to stay in touch with your surgeon or a member of their clinical staff as they are directly aware of your surgery and medical history. It is normal to have a very low grade fever, but if it persists you may need medical attention. Your surgeon and his staff may be more quick to assist if you are keeping them aware of your post surgery symptoms.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Low grade fever is not uncommon after surgery, specially the first few days.  This is a result of anesthesia and not breathing deep enough.  There are portions of the lung that are not aerating which is called atelectasis.  This causes the low grade fever.With deep breathing and movement, the fever usually resolves in a day or so.If fever persists or is higher then I would consult your plastic surgeon to make sure there is not something else going on.Hope that helps.

Kamran Azad, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. A low grade fever is common for a day or two after surgery as a results of anesthesia. But I would recommend consulting your plastic surgeon so they may better address the situation, especially if the fever persists. Good luck.Kamran Azad MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi Tamz740,I understand your concern. Fever occurring within the first 24 to 48 hours after breast augmentation surgery is not uncommon and will usually resolve over time. However, if the fever persists or additional symptoms occur, you should visit your plastic surgeon for proper assessment and timely intervention. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Low-grade fevers within the first two days after surgery are not uncommon are usually related to a pulmonary "source" (atelectasis).  These fevers often resolve with extra attention to pulmonary "toilet"   :measures such as deep breathing and ambulation are helpful.  However, always best to run these types of concerns by your plastic surgeon who will be your best fees resource for assessment and advice.  Best wishes.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Contact your surgeon about your fever.  I would not be alarmed, but we do not like to see this after surgery.

Is a low grade fever (100 or 99.8) common after breast lift with implants the first 2 days after surgery?

Answers (9)

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