Does swollen breast need drainage after augmentation and lift?

I had breast lift and breast implants 16 days ago through areolar incision. My right side is great, but my left is still swollen and hurts a bit. Is this normal? Do you see this a lot? Do I need to have it drained or will it be okay soon? I know everyone is different, but I have to be in a honeymoon in 5 weeks in Aruba, and I dont want to be hurting too much then. Thank you.

Does swollen breast need drainage after augmentation and lift?
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11 answers to “Does swollen breast need drainage...”

A: I would recommend seeing your surgeon

Shahram Salemy, MD

 It's difficult to know what exactly is going on without an examination, but if you have a large amount of fluid present around your implant, this may develop into an infection and potentially threaten the implant (the implant could need to be removed). I would see your surgeon so he can assess you-- with... more

A: Could be a hematoma

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Kitty, With the brief history you give and that photograph, I would say that you have a hematoma.  A hematoma is bleeding that occurs under the skin.  In the case of breast augmentation, usually around the implant.  It is associated with excessive swelling and pain.  You really to see your... more

A: Unusual swelling after augmentation can mean bleeding

Peter E. Johnson, MD

I don't wish to cause alarm, but the unusual swelling on one side, at least a cup size in your breast may indicate bleeding into the breast implant pocket called a hematoma. Bleeding untreated can lead to prolonged bruising and breast pain, and capsular contracture. We suggest a snug bra for support and an... more

A: Get seen by a plastic surgeon soon

Evan Sorokin, MD

I, am not your surgeon and do not know the details of your operation, so I cannot give you direct medical advise, except to say that significant swelling such as this photo with one side being much bigger than the other is a reason for a visit to your surgeon. Slight asymmetry is normal. Major asymmetry is not... more

A: Need to folllow up with your Plastic Surgeon

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD

 You do have a fair degree of asymmetry and a bit more than I would expect at 16 days following surgery.  There are a few more pieces of information that would be helpful in determining the etiology of your problem 1. were your breasts similar in size and shape prior to surgery 2. Were the same sized... more

A: Have it evaluated

Scott E. Kasden, MD

First, more information would be helpful.  Are the implants above or below the muscle.  Despite this, it appears (without benefit of exam), that you have a significant fluid accumulation in the right breast.  It might do well left alone, but I would worry about the risk of infection,... more

A: Get seen right away

Armando Soto, MD

Hi there- Without knowing more and examining you directly, it would be difficult to say for sure what is going on, but based on the photo you posted, I think chances are pretty good that you have a problem that will need management by your surgeon. I would call him/her right away for an evaluation. Good luck... more

A: Go to Your Surgeon!

Michael S. Beckenstein, MD

You should be seen ASAP! There might be a fluid collection causing thie size change, infection, or post operative swelling. If the left breast was larger before surgery, this might be a proportional change. An ultrasound will detrmine if there is fluid there and can be drained at the same time... more

A: Go visit your surgeon!

Michael A. Bogdan, MD

Based on your picture, I am very concerned that you have a hematoma in your left breast.  You should go have your surgeon evaluate you.  If it is a hematoma, the sooner you get it addressed surgically, the faster your overall recovery will be.  (You can still go to Aruba, but get this assessed... more

A: You probably have a hematoma.

George J. Beraka, MD

Hi.  You either have a hematoma (collection of blood) or a seroma (collection of liquid).  Whichever it is, it needs to be drained right away.  I recommend a sonogram to help figure out what's wrong.  But don't leave this alone!

More answers to Does swollen breast need drainage after augmentation and lift?
Seattle - You need drainage for sure!
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