Fever after a mommy makeover, is this common?

Yes, a low grade fever is not uncommon after surgery but it is important that you continue to monitor it and communicate with your surgeon.  It is often from the lack of deep breathing since you are sleepy from the anesthesia, sore from the surgery, and have narcotics that you are taking.  Try to take deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth several times an hour.  If your physician supplied you with an incentive spirometer you can use that.  Getting up and moving around your home as you are able is also encouraged.

A low grade fever is very common after any procedure, but especially after a tummy tuck.  It sounds like your surgeon is communicating with you well.  Try to relax and work on deep breathing, good luck, Jane. 

Low grade temperatures (

Thank you for your question.  Yes, it is not uncommon to have a low grade fever right after surgery.  This is typically due to atelectasis of the lungs.  Basically, the little sacs inside the lungs that exchange oxygen collapse down after anesthesia.  For some reason this causes a fever.  Deep breathing and coughing or use of an incentive spirometer will typically reverse the atelectasis.  A fever over 101.5 might be concerning for a possible infection.  Best to listen to your surgeon and follow their recommendations.  Regards,MHS

Patients that have just had surgery can run a little elevated temperature afterwards and you were correct in calling your Plastic surgeon for advice.  An elevated temperature besides being treated with ibuprofen, I would have the patient make sure to take good deep breaths every two hours, get up and walk for circulation for several minutes every two hours, and drink more fluids as you may be a bit dehydrated.  Wishing you a quick recovery.