Can a breast reduction surgery cause a calcified nodule as a result of a hematoma?

Question

Post BR 3.5 months. On my LUQ (directly on my side, about 4" below my furthest surgical incision, is a pinkish discoloration and a palpable lump. Has been there for 6 weeks. Breast doc said she felt it was unrelated to surgery. Primary care doc had an US and CT done. CT report says "peripherally calcified nodule in left flank which could have been a hematoma." Is this a) a big deal?; b) likely from drainage post-surgery? And is there anything I need to do about it? PC doc seems unknowledgeable.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This is a very important question. As certain cells die, they can leave behind scar tissue and calcium deposits. This can happen after a reduction surgery from a hematoma or more commonly from fat necrosis. While these are technically harmless, they can look like similar findings to cancerous cells on imaging and can often create concern. While this area is most likely benign, the only way to know for sure and get peace of mind is to have a workup and have the area biopsied and evaluated by a pathologist to make sure there are no concerns for malignancy.Hope this helps!

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

The lump that you are describing which is 4 inches below your surgical site is not necessarily related to your breast reduction. Regardless, calcifications can occur as a consequence of hematomas, fat necrosis, etc. Given the location, its extremely unlikely to be of anything of consequence (that is, to worry about). Furthermore, radiologists can discern issues of concern that could represent cancer. If you are still nervous about this, a biopsy/excision can be requested.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Calcifications can occur anywhere and are most often due to fat necrosis especially after surgery. These lesions are safe. If you are worried, just have it biopsied.

Can a breast reduction surgery cause a calcified nodule as a result of a hematoma?

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Can a breast reduction surgery cause a calcified nodule as a result of a hematoma?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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