Is this an infection after breast reduction?

June 29, 2009
Asked By:Rbhageman in Florence, KY

I had breast reduction surgery 6 months ago and everything went great. I am very pleased with the outcome and the healing went well. However, two weeks ago, I noticed a hard lump under my right breast on the incision line that was very tender. I had a business conference that was a week long, so I didn't go see my doctor immediately.By the time I returned, that lump was black and blue and was the size of a gumball. It was very painful. I called my doctor and was able to get into see her this morning. She cut it open and drained it and said it was full of pus. She has sent off the "gunk" to have it examined. When I asked her what could have caused this after 6 months, she didn't have an answer.I exercise regularly and don't know if I could have caused this by lifting too much weight or if it is a fluke thing. Do you have any insight on what caused it and if it could be serious? The entire breast is now sore and painful. Thank you.

Answers (11)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
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April 24, 2013

Answer: Most Infections Following Breast Reduction Surgery Occur in the Immediate PostOp Period

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Richard J. Bruneteau, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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April 24, 2013

Answer: Most Infections Following Breast Reduction Surgery Occur in the Immediate PostOp Period

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Richard J. Bruneteau, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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February 3, 2021

Answer: Likely a suture reaction or granuloma

David Mattos, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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February 3, 2021

Answer: Likely a suture reaction or granuloma

David Mattos, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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March 28, 2018

Answer: Infection and new lump after breast reduction

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March 28, 2018

Answer: Infection and new lump after breast reduction

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November 18, 2014

Answer: Breast Reduction Surgery Complication?

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Tom J. Pousti, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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November 18, 2014

Answer: Breast Reduction Surgery Complication?

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Tom J. Pousti, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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November 5, 2018

Answer: Abscess 6 months after breast reduction

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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November 5, 2018

Answer: Abscess 6 months after breast reduction

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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