17/06/2026
Fever and chills can happen after breast surgery and may be part of your body's normal healing response. However, they can also be a sign of a more serious issue, such as an infection, so it's important to know what to look out for ❤️🩹
You might notice:
• An elevated temperature (above 38°C / 100.4°F)
• Shivering or shaking
• Feeling unusually hot, even in a cool room
• Alternating between feeling very cold and very hot
• Fatigue, muscle aches, or a general feeling of being unwell
A low-grade fever in the first 24–48 hours after surgery can be a normal part of recovery. However, fever and chills that develop later, especially after a few days, may indicate an infection or another complication.
Possible causes can include:
🦠 Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
🫁 Pneumonia
🩸 Blood clots
💊 Medication side effects
You should seek medical advice if you experience:
• A fever above 38°C (100.4°F) that persists or worsens
• Chills accompanied by shaking, confusion, or difficulty breathing
• Fever and chills with redness, swelling, or discharge at the surgical site
• Chest pain, leg swelling, or a rapid heartbeat
• Any symptoms that make you feel very unwell
This information comes from an in-app symptom navigator article written by Dr Hadyn Kankam. You can explore more evidence-based resources like this on the free BLOOM⁴³ Prehab™ app.
Prehab™ | Breast surgery recovery | Fever after surgery | Chills after surgery | Surgical recovery symptoms | Breast surgery support | Patient education | Recovery after breast surgery | BLOOM⁴³