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
November 5, 2012
Answer: 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 individual circumstances. Old blood may need to be drained. If you truly have significant capsular contracture, a revision may be necessary to improve this. This is often performed after tissues have softened.
Not treating the hematoma could lead to a poor result and higher chance of infection. It is critical that you see a board certified plastic surgeon to determine a plan that is most likely to get you to a good result safely.
Best wishes,
Michael Vennemeyer, MD
Helpful
November 5, 2012
Answer: 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 individual circumstances. Old blood may need to be drained. If you truly have significant capsular contracture, a revision may be necessary to improve this. This is often performed after tissues have softened.
Not treating the hematoma could lead to a poor result and higher chance of infection. It is critical that you see a board certified plastic surgeon to determine a plan that is most likely to get you to a good result safely.
Best wishes,
Michael Vennemeyer, MD
Helpful
July 24, 2012
Answer: 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 for surgery now.
Helpful
July 24, 2012
Answer: 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 for surgery now.
Helpful