What if Breast Hematoma Goes Untreated?

I am 6 weeks post op. i have a diagnosed hematoma under 1 breast that caused capsular contracture. Had lot of bleeding on one side post op, then purple discoloration that spread and turned entire bottom of breast hard. Now it's breaking up and I feel like 5 firm separate areas. Skin is still discolored. Other than capsular contracture and the obvious embarassing discoloration, what happens if I just never remove it or treat the hematoma? So far no signs of infection. Thank you

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8 Doctor Answers | Asked by IdontKnow123

Doctor Answers (8)
Community Comments (1)

Discoloration will improve on its own.

After 6 weeks have already passed, there is no reason to go back into the breast pocket to evacuate the hematoma unless there is any sign of infection or a capsule has formed. The discoloration will likely resolve altogether with time.

Untreated hematoma after breast augmentation

Untreated hematomas (collection of blood in pocket) after breast augmentation can lead to long term problems. Early treatment likely reduces these risks. Capsular contracture: the blood causes inflammation which can lead your body to produce a thicker capsule. This can happen in the short or long term. Infection: old blood is perfect food for bacteria. As long as it is in there, the risk of infection is higher. The best course of action for you depends on your... more

Hematoma after breast augmentation should be drained early to avoid further problems

Bleeding is a complication that can happen from any surgery. In breast augmentation, if a hematoma (collection blood and clot around the implant) occurs, it is better to surgically have the hematoma removed within 2-3 days to avoid risk of capsular contracture (hardening of the implant capsule). If significant time has elapsed from the surgery and hematoma, then, it is wiser to wait until all inflammation calms down before another surgery is done. A hematoma can get... more

Untreated Breast Hematoma

At six weeks after having a hematoma, there is no compelling reason to re-enter the breast implant capsule. This was an issue to consider at the time the diagnosis was made, but that time has passed. It will likely be necessary in the future to perform a capsulectomy, but that awaits further healing and how the breast looks and feels with more time. Infection is always a risk and just because it has not occurred yet does not mean it will not occur. But that in and of itself is not a reason... more

Hematoma after breast augmentation

Hematoma is the most common preventable cause of capsular contracture. If it is diagnosed early, it is usually reasonable to actually go in a have the clot removed to prevent unnecessary inflammation related to the clot. Now that 6 weeks have passed, it is likely that there is nothing more to be done aside from massage as the discoloration will improve with time. Stay in touch with your surgeon as there are some doctors who will employ Singulair to help attempt... more

Hematoma after Breast Augmentation

You have touched on the two major complications that are associated with hematoma that involves breast implants. The first is that your rate of capsular contracture is significantly higher. This can be a very significant complication, and will likely require at least one and potentially multiple revisional operations to treat. Infection of the hematoma is also a possibility, and this can be devastating and require removal of your implants. I strongly recommend that... more

Untreated breast hematoma

Other than capsular contracture? That is a big complication which may require additional surgery so I do not understand why you would not want to be treated in a timely manner. The discoloration will resolve but you should be vigilant about followup and address surgical treatment with your physician.

Untreated breast hematoma

Two main potential problems with untreated hematomas....higher risk of capsule contracture and possible infection. The discoloration will eventually resolve. The capsule contracture may need to be addressed surgically.

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Comments (1)

IdontKnow123 24 Jul 2012

"Other than capsular contracture? That is a big complication which may require additional surgery so I do not understand why you would not want to be treated in a timely manner. " Thanks for the response Dr. Kraft but unfortunately I dont have $5,000-$7,000 on hand to give to a surgeon to treat me; so for now, it HAS to go untreated. I will keep watch for signs of infection.

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