Is it safe to use a heating pad on my incision six days post op tummy tuck? Does it interfere with the healing process?

Question

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

You should avoid using a heating pad on your abdomen following a tummy tuck.  During a tummy tuck, the skin is lifted off of the muscle wall, resected, and the muscle wall is tightened.  You will experience decreased sensation over the abdomen for up to one year following your tummy tuck.  Utilizing heat in any way on the abdomen can be dangerous because there is a risk of burns due to lack of sensation over the area.

Robert Frank, MD · Answer

We have had patients with both burns and frostbite type of injuries from heat or cold directly on the skin. Be sure wrap the heating pad in a towel and check the area visually periodically to be sure you're not harming the skin.

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  After a tummy tuck procedure, we recommend that you avoid using a heating pad as there typically is numbness around the incision site and you could potentially burn yourself and not realize it.Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

Sanjiv Kayastha, MD · Answer

I do not like my patients to use any source of heat or cold on their incisions following surgery. The area does not have normal sensation and it is possible for a burn or frostbite to ensue. If my patient is uncomfortable I prefer that they use pain medication until it subsides.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the tummy tuck procedure. Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to postoperative care questions. Some plastic surgeons have very strong opinions... If you do decide to use either modality of ice or heat, please be sure that you do not place them directly on the skin and potentially “burn” the skin, which may be numb.Best wishes.

Is it safe to use a heating pad on my incision six days post op tummy tuck? Does it interfere with the healing process?

Answers (9)