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?

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

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

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

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!

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.

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

After a full body lift and gynecomastia surgery, it's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative care instructions carefully. Generally, heat pads and ice packs can be used to help manage pain, swelling, and discomfort following surgery. However, it's crucial to use them correctly to avoid any potential complications.Here are some general guidelines for using heat pads and ice packs after surgery:1. Ice packs (cold therapy):• Cold therapy can help reduce swelling and inflammation, providing relief from discomfort.• Wrap the ice pack in a thin cloth or towel to prevent direct contact with the skin and minimize the risk of frostbite or skin damage.• Apply the ice pack to the surgical areas for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, as recommended by your plastic surgeon.• Take breaks between applications to allow the skin to return to its normal temperature.2. Heat pads (heat therapy):• Heat therapy can help relax muscles and alleviate muscle stiffness or tension.• Place a thin cloth or towel between the heat pad and your skin to prevent burns or irritation.• Apply the heat pad to the affected areas for 15-20 minutes at a time, as directed by your plastic surgeon.• Avoid applying heat directly to incision sites or areas where the skin is still healing.3. Over clothing:• It's generally safe to use ice packs or heat pads over clothing, especially if the surgical areas are sensitive or tender.• Make sure the clothing is clean and dry before applying the ice pack or heat pad.• Avoid using excessive pressure or tight clothing that could restrict blood flow to the surgical areas.Always follow your plastic surgeon's specific recommendations for post-operative care, including the use of heat pads and ice packs. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or skin irritation, contact your plastic surgeon promptly for further guidance.

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.

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

Surgeons generally recommend against any heat treatment to the operated areas. As you said, because of the numbness, the patient may not know if any damage is being done by exposure. Treating the non-operated areas is OK.

Shana Kalaria, MD · Answer

Ice packs are absolutely okay after these types of surgeries. You are correct in that ice packs should never be applied directly to the skin. You should wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel before applying it and only use for maximum 15 minutes at a time. Ice has been proven to work as effectively as pain medication. I never really recommend heat packs. Good luck with your surgery!