Can I put ice on my incision from my very large lipoma that was removed a week ago?

Question

I had a large deep tissue Lipoma removed from my upper back a week ago . I had wound vac and a drain tube in for a week. I just got the drain tube and wound vac out yesterday . I have a very large incision about 7" long. I feel like I have some swelling today. Can I put ice on it to reduce the swelling.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Always best to clear any incision questions with your surgeon, but assuming no healing issues you should be able to use ice for swelling.  Because the back is very prone to seroma formation be sure to have your surgeon rule out this possibility.  Hope this helps.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

If ice helps, use it.Typically ice is used in the first couple of days after surgery to reduce bruising and provide pain relief.I recommend low dose ibuprofen and swell-x pt to reduce pain and inflammation.Best

Reza Nassab, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

There is a possibility that you may have a seroma.  This is collection of fluid that has filled the space where the lipoma was.  This is best reviewed by your surgeon who may be able to drain off the fluid if needed.  Often if this is not a huge amount of fluid the body will absorb it with time.

Can I put ice on my incision from my very large lipoma that was removed a week ago?

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