How “normal” is the bump in my armpit? (Photo)

Question

Hello, I’m about 4 months post op. Transaxillary incisions, under the muscle, mentor implants. After my BA/during healing, I noticed a bump under one of my armpits (other armpit seems fine) and seemingly beneath my incision. It doesn’t hurt and I haven’t noticed it growing or shrinking. My PS says it can be drained or I can leave it, but draining doesn’t ensure it won’t reappear. Is this normal? Should I get it drained? Attached are different angles of the bump. Thanks!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear GSYT,
I understand your concern. Based on your photos, it looks like a seroma and it should be drained. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question and photograph.  This is not a common manifestation after a transaxillary breast augmentation and I would advocate having it treated as after 4 months it is unlikely to spontaneously resolve.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You've already spoken with your surgeon about this which is good.  The correct course of action really depends on the nature of the lump.  If it is bothersome or continues to grow I would encourage you to address it.  Continue to have your surgeon follow the situation and advise her/him of any changes.

Paul B. Mills, MD · Answer

This bump is not likely anything worrisome.  There are a few different possibilities but the most likely is a small seroma or fluid collection.  See you plastic surgeon to have it drained so that you don't develop a permanent fluid collection or excess scar tissue in this area.  Good luck.

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for writing,Trans-Ax incisions are not used very often any more. The bump that is in the photos can be numerous things. I would have your Plastic Surgeon evaluate this and treat it. It should be easy and you'll be on your way. Good luckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACS
Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Surgery
Member: American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member: RealSelf Hall fo Fame

Tarek V. Copty, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear GSYT, 
The answer is "no" it is not normal to have a bump associated with your incision. I would suggest seeing your surgeon and having this treated as it will not resolve on its own. 
Best regards, 
Tarek V. Copty, MD FACS
American Board of Surgery 
American Board of Cosmetic Surgery 
Jordanian Board of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Fellow, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery 
Fellow, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photo's.  I would see your PS to have it drained.  Transaxillary incision breast augmentation's are not commonly done anymore, I have always used the inframammary fold for augmentation's.

Peter Newen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. The bump that has developed is not normal and is likely a build up of fluid. I do recommend following up with your board certified plastic surgeon to have it evaluated in person. I do also recommend having it drained as it will likely not resolve by itself.

Norman Waterhouse, MBChB, FRCS (Plast) (retired) · Answer

this swelling is not what you would expect normally after the procedure. It is likely to be a small seroma and could be drained as an  office procedure. Less likely is that it may be a cyst .
Show it to your surgeon who will advise you.
I’m sure it’s easily fixed

How “normal” is the bump in my armpit? (Photo)

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