How much bleeding is normal after breast reduction surgery?

Question

I am day 1 after surgery and went home with no drains. When should I be concerned with the bleeding? The blood is frank and is still slowly seeping out under my left breast. It has soaked through the dressing pad and the surgical bra? Does this mean that I pooped a tich and need to have it redone? There doesn't seem to be a huge gap in between the stitches.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

I usually have my patients wear paper tape on their #breast incisions for several weeks, changing them every several days. But, it may be best to speak to your surgeon in this case. If you have severe redness, swelling, #drainage or odor of any kind, it is important to call the office and speak with the doctor or medical staff. You may need to be seen in the office and evaluated. If the wound becomes separated or you develop a small opening, this again should be evaluated so that appropriate steps can be taken as soon as possible to prevent infection.

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

I would certainly let your surgeon know right away about this. Typically after breast reduction surgery, there can be a slight amount of blood that can stain the steri strips or ABD pad. But there really shouldn't be any seeping of frank blood. I would be even more concerned if the bleeding was on one side only and that breast was becoming more swollen than the other side. This could represent a hematoma. Best to talk and be seen by your surgeon to know for sure.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I usually place drains, but there are those that do not. If you feel you have a lot of blood draining, then it is a good idea to see or talk to your surgeon to get advice. Good luck.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

I would contact your PS. A little blood is normal and often a little blood can look like a lot on a dressing pad. It is important that your PS rules out a haematoma which usually not only involves some bleeding but also leads to an increase in size of one side and some discomfort. Your PS will be able to reassure you.

How much bleeding is normal after breast reduction surgery?

Answers (4)

Answer: Bleeding following breast reduction

Answer: Bleeding following breast reduction

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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How much bleeding is normal after breast reduction surgery?

Answers (4)

Answer: Bleeding following breast reduction

Answer: Bleeding following breast reduction

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.