Are heat pads & ice packs okay to use over clothing after full body lift & gynecomastia?

Question

I'm getting a full body lift with gynecomastia surgery soon and was wondering if heat pads and ice packs are okay to use on top of clothing. My surgeon has said nothing about it but after research I've seen several posts about it being forbidden. Mainly with them being applied directly over the wound, which makes sense due to numbness. But if I were sit on a pad to alleviate tension on my butt or place ice packs on clothes where swelling is, would that be okay?

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry!    Heat / ice is not recommended on surgical incisions post-op or where areas of the body are still numb.  It would be difficult to sense when the area is too hot or cold, the result could be a burn or decreased blood flow to the area resulting in abnormal results.   We would love to meet with you to discuss your goals.  Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon soon!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Ice packs are often helpful to minimize swelling and to provide comfort.  However this question is best answered by your plastic surgeon as she/he is most familiar with the planned procedures and opinions can vary.  It is important that ice packs are not left in place too long, especially after surgery since sensation is altered and blood supply to the surgical area can be affected.  Your surgeon and her/his team will guide you on appropriate post op care.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

It's essential to follow your surgeon's advice for post-operative care. Generally, using ice packs over clothing can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the first few days after surgery. If you choose to use heat pads for muscle tension, place a barrier like clothing or a towel between the pad and your skin, and use the lowest heat setting for short periods. Always consult with your surgeon before using heat pads or ice packs to ensure it's safe for your specific situation.

Thank you for your question, and best of luck with your surgery and recovery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear wwcpeters,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, I do not recommend using hot or cold after body contouring surgery because sensation is almost always reduced enough to put patients at risk of getting burned or frost bitten without knowing it. In addition, cold reduces blood supply and is particularly dangerous for body lifts because the blood supply is already reduced due to the operation. Applying cold to the skin below your belly button can cause significant ischemic injury and soft tissue necrosis.

Are heat pads & ice packs okay to use over clothing after full body lift & gynecomastia?

Answers (8)

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Hot and cold after body contouring

Answer: Hot and cold after body contouring

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Are heat pads & ice packs okay to use over clothing after full body lift & gynecomastia?

Answers (8)

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Hot and cold after body contouring

Answer: Hot and cold after body contouring

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Body Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.