Can I use ice packs after my breast aug?

Question

Had breast aug yesterday and having a lot more pain than I anticipated. The surgery center sent me home with ice packs, but none of my post op instructions mention it, and I don’t recall my surgeon or nurse saying anything. I’ll call in the morning and ask, but in the meantime would it be okay for me to use the ice packs to try to relieve the pain and swelling?

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I allow my patients to use ice packs after breast augmentation surgery, if desired. None of my patients have had any problems. Always a good idea, as you suggested, to check with your surgeon's protocol.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Michael Horn, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Icing can be helpful to reduce swelling post surgery. I typically recommend icing about 20 minutes on 20 minutes off for a few days after. It is always best to follow the instructions of your surgeon.

Frank Lista, MD · Answer

Following a breast augmentation, the patient's skin will be stretched and swollen as it accommodates the new implant. This results in extra sensitive skin that I commonly compare to "newborn" skin. Applying cold or heat to the area can result in a skin burn that can lead to a number of other issues as you are healing from your surgery. The bottom line, avoid applying heat or cold to the area following surgery. Pain can be managed with your surgical team through the use of pain killers. We send our patients home with a "pain pump" that gently pumps pain medication to the area for the first 24 hours following surgery and provides relief for the patient when they leave the clinic. You were right to question the ice packs and to only follow the instructions provided post operatively by your surgeon.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, hopefully you have gotten a hold of your surgeon's office this morning.  Ice is helpful with swelling during the first day or two, but I do not like patients applying continuously the whole time.  Please ask for a protocol from your surgeon's staff and I hope you have a speedy recovery.

Stephen Bresnick, MD · Answer

Ice Packs can be helpful after breast surgery.  I instruct my patients to use them to reduce swelling, but use thin insulation against the skin as to not injure the skin directly.  Use ice on, and then off for a short period of time.     I would ask your doctor his/her thoughts and best wishes!

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

acarter0224.  Ice packs, on for 10 minutes off for 20 every few hours may alleviate some of your discomfort and should not cause harm. However, I recommend you discuss this plan with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck.

Eddy Dona, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

I advise my patients that they can use ice packs to relieve pain and discomfort and help to reduce swelling. Following surgery your skin on the breasts and surrounding area may be numb.  I would recommend not to place the ice packs directly on the skin, also to follow a guide of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to avoid any injury to the skin.   Follow up with your plastic surgeon on their recommendations.

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Although post operative instructions do vary from one plastic surgeon to another, I would allow ice for comfort being used for approximately 20 minutes every hour.  Best to cover your ice pack with a soft cloth and do not place on numb skin.  Best of luck.

Georgios Ziakas, MD, FACS · Answer

Ice packs may be used but not directly on the skin to avoid frostbites. Following your surgeon's postoperative regimen is the best practice.

Rachel Streu, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thank you so much for your question! I like to discuss with my patient's that they can use ice 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. Some patient's have a decrease in breast sensation after anesthesia and surgery, and I do not want them to risk frostbite for leaving the ice packs on too long. That being said, ice is a great way to achieve some relief. I suggest you follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon and congratulations on your breast augmentation.

Can I use ice packs after my breast aug?

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