Is it normal for the wound to itch after minimally invasive breast surgery?

Mar 25, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, it is normal for the wound to feel itchy after minimally invasive breast surgery if there are no other accompanying symptoms. However, if chest itching is accompanied by other discomforts, it may be abnormal. Patients are advised to promptly visit a hospital and follow medical advice for treatment. During recovery, patients should also get adequate rest and avoid strenuous exercise and overexertion to promote wound healing and recovery.

Generally, if the wound itches after minimally invasive breast surgery without other accompanying symptoms, this is considered a normal phenomenon. However, if chest itching occurs along with other discomforts, it may indicate an abnormal condition. Patients are advised to promptly visit a hospital and follow medical advice for treatment. The detailed explanation is as follows:

During the healing process of a surgical incision, new granulation tissue and blood vessels are forming, while nerve endings are gradually recovering. These newly formed tissues can stimulate the surrounding skin, causing an itchy sensation. This type of itching typically does not come with other adverse symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, or fever. It is a natural part of wound healing and indicates that the wound is progressively improving. Therefore, patients need not worry excessively; they should simply maintain cleanliness and dryness of the wound and avoid scratching or friction to prevent worsening discomfort.

If the wound itches after minimally invasive breast surgery and is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, increased pain, fever, or pus discharge, this may be abnormal. These signs could suggest a risk of wound infection or inflammatory reactions in the underlying tissues at the surgical site. In such cases, patients should seek medical attention promptly for further evaluation and treatment. Based on the specific condition of the wound, doctors may prescribe appropriate anti-infective therapy or perform debridement to prevent further deterioration.

During recovery, patients should also ensure adequate rest and avoid strenuous exercise and fatigue to promote proper wound healing and overall recovery.